NY
New York Senate Bill S07686

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S07686

Introduced
4/29/25  

Caption

Includes Middle Eastern and North African persons in the definition of "minority group member" for purposes of participation by minority group members and women with respect to state contracts.

Impact

The inclusion of Middle Eastern and North African persons as minority group members is expected to have a positive impact on state laws concerning discrimination and economic opportunities. This change could pave the way for these groups to benefit from state contracts that set aside a portion of bids for minority-owned businesses. As state agencies work towards equitable contracting, this amendment may alleviate the previous underrepresentation of these communities in state procurement processes, thereby fostering a more inclusive economy.

Summary

Bill S07686 aims to amend the executive law of New York to include Middle Eastern and North African persons within the definition of 'minority group member'. This change is significant as it seeks to enhance participation by these individuals in state contracts, which have historically included a limited set of minority definitions. By broadening the scope of who qualifies as a minority group member, the bill aims to promote diversity and inclusion in state procurement processes, potentially leading to increased business opportunities for a wider array of minority-owned enterprises.

Contention

While the bill is generally framed as a step towards equality, there may be points of contention regarding its implementation. Some stakeholders may raise concerns about the adequacy of existing support systems in place for these new classifications and whether state agencies will effectively adapt to this expanded definition. Additionally, discussions may arise regarding potential pushback from other minority groups who may view this shift as a competition for limited state contracting opportunities. It will be essential for the state to navigate these dynamics to ensure that all communities can access the benefits intended by this legislation.

Latest S07686 Activity

Companion Bills

NY A02691

Same As Includes middle Eastern and North African persons in the definition of "minority group member" for purposes of participation by minority group members and women with respect to state contracts.

Previously Filed As

NY S09916

Includes certain persons of Middle Eastern and North African heritage and speakers of Haitian Creole as language minorities.

NY A10166

Enacts the "MWBE equality act" to add ethno-religious groups as minority group members for the purposes of MWBE; defines ethno-religious persons as unified by a common religious and ethnic background.

NY S01424

Directs contracting state agencies to develop a growth plan in order to increase participation of minority- and women-owned businesses with respect to state contracts and subcontracts which includes an analyses of the use of discretionary buying.

NY A07810

Directs contracting state agencies to develop a growth plan in order to increase participation of minority- and women-owned businesses with respect to state contracts and subcontracts which includes an analyses of the use of discretionary buying.

NY S01548

Encourages the participation of minority- and women-owned business enterprises in state contracts by avoiding unnecessary and unjustified bundling of contract requirements that preclude minority- and women-owned business participation.

NY A03852

Encourages the participation of minority- and women-owned business enterprises in state contracts by avoiding unnecessary and unjustified bundling of contract requirements that preclude minority- and women-owned business participation.

NY A06219

Requires separate collection categories for White, Middle Eastern, and North African groups in NYS.

NY S06584

Requires separate collection categories for White, Middle Eastern, and North African groups in NYS.

NY S00969

Allows municipal commissions to use alternate lists for filling vacancies with resident and non-resident minority group members and women in order to achieve diversity in police departments.

NY A06293

Allows municipal commissions to use alternate lists for filling vacancies with resident and non-resident minority group members and women in order to achieve diversity in police departments.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.