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Bill

Bill

S 5116

Relates to the documentation and preservation of Black history in New York state by the state university of New York

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Cordell Cleare

Bill S 5116 mandates SUNY to document and preserve Black history in New York, enriching education and community engagement while ensuring access to vital narratives.

REFERRED TO HIGHER EDUCATION
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Bill Summary · S 5116

Summary of Bill S 5116

Bill Information

  • Bill Number: S 5116
  • Title: Relates to the documentation and preservation of Black history in New York State by the State University of New York
  • Status: Referred to Higher Education
  • Introduced: February 19, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill S 5116 aims to enhance the documentation and preservation of Black history within New York State through initiatives led by the State University of New York (SUNY). The bill recognizes the importance of preserving the contributions and experiences of Black individuals and communities in the state's history, ensuring that this vital narrative is included in educational curricula and public records.

Key Provisions

  • Documentation Initiatives: The bill mandates SUNY to establish programs focused on the documentation of Black history, including the collection of oral histories, archival materials, and other relevant documentation.
  • Preservation Efforts: SUNY will be tasked with developing strategies to preserve existing records and artifacts related to Black history, ensuring they are accessible for educational purposes.
  • Curriculum Development: The bill encourages the integration of Black history into the broader educational curriculum across SUNY campuses, promoting awareness and understanding among students.
  • Collaboration with Communities: SUNY is expected to collaborate with local communities, historians, and organizations dedicated to Black history to enhance the effectiveness of these initiatives.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Students and Educators: The bill will directly impact students and educators within the SUNY system by enriching the educational content available and promoting a more inclusive historical narrative.
  • Local Communities: Communities with significant Black history will benefit from increased recognition and preservation of their cultural heritage.
  • Historians and Researchers: The bill will provide resources and support for historians and researchers focusing on Black history, facilitating access to preserved materials.

Procedural Timeline

  • February 19, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Higher Education Committee.
  • May 21, 2025: The bill was amended and recommitted to Higher Education, with a new print number (5116A).
  • June 4, 2025: The committee was discharged, and the bill was committed to rules for further consideration.
  • June 10, 2025: The bill passed the Senate and was delivered to the Assembly, where it was again referred to the Higher Education Committee for review.

Related Bills

  • A 7330: This is the companion bill in the Assembly, which mirrors the provisions of S 5116 and aims to achieve similar objectives regarding the documentation and preservation of Black history in New York State.

This summary provides an overview of Bill S 5116, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and potential impact on education and community engagement regarding Black history in New York State.

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

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