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A 5485

Provides that local state of emergency orders issued by a chief executive of a county, city, town or village shall not violate section 291 of the executive law providing equality of opportunity of a civil right

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Phara Souffrant Forrest

Bill A 5485 ensures local emergency orders respect civil rights, protecting residents from discrimination during crises and guiding local leaders on their authority.

REFERRED TO LOCAL GOVERNMENTS
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Bill Summary · A 5485

Summary of Bill A 5485

Bill Information

  • Bill Number: A 5485
  • Title: Provides that local state of emergency orders issued by a chief executive of a county, city, town, or village shall not violate section 291 of the executive law providing equality of opportunity of a civil right.
  • Status: Referred to Local Governments
  • Introduced: February 14, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 5485 aims to ensure that local state of emergency orders issued by the chief executives of counties, cities, towns, or villages do not infringe upon the civil rights guaranteed under section 291 of the New York Executive Law. This section emphasizes the importance of equality of opportunity and prohibits discrimination in various contexts.

Key Provisions

  • Protection of Civil Rights: The bill explicitly states that any local emergency orders must comply with the provisions of section 291, which protects individuals from discrimination based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, and other characteristics.
  • Scope of Local Authority: It clarifies the limits of authority for local executives during states of emergency, ensuring that emergency measures do not override civil rights protections.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Local Governments: Chief executives of counties, cities, towns, and villages will need to consider civil rights implications when issuing emergency orders.
  • Residents: Individuals living in these jurisdictions will benefit from enhanced protections against potential discrimination during emergencies.
  • Civil Rights Advocates: Organizations and individuals focused on civil rights will have a framework to challenge any local emergency orders that may violate section 291.

Procedural Aspects

  • Current Status: The bill was introduced on February 14, 2025, and has been referred to the Local Governments committee for further consideration.
  • Next Steps: The bill will undergo discussions and potential amendments in the Local Governments committee before it can proceed to a vote.

Conclusion

Bill A 5485 seeks to safeguard civil rights during local states of emergency, ensuring that emergency measures do not compromise equality of opportunity. By reinforcing the protections outlined in section 291 of the Executive Law, the bill aims to create a framework for responsible governance during crises while upholding fundamental civil rights.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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