New York Assembly Bill A08096

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/30/25
• Refer: 4/30/25

Caption

Directs the department of economic development, in conjunction with the empire state development corporation, to review all contracts entered into or overseen or enforced by the department of economic development and/or the empire state development corporation relating to the leasing of state-owned premises to private parties for the production, manufacture and/or development of solar shingle products, electric vehicle charging networks, advanced driver-assistance systems, and/or supercomputer hardware and to identify and eliminate fraud, abuse or waste by private parties.

Impact

The bill is designed to direct state resources effectively while holding private parties accountable for their contractual obligations. This accountability includes ensuring that these entities employ state residents, pay appropriate rents, invest in local resources, and contribute to job training initiatives. By stipulating these requirements, the bill seeks to foster local economic growth and retain jobs within New York, thereby reinforcing the state’s commitment to enhancing its technological infrastructure and advancing green energy initiatives.

Summary

Assembly Bill A08096, titled 'New York Determining Obligations and Guaranteeing Enforcement (DOGE) in Government Contracting Act', proposes significant reforms in how contracts related to the production and development of environmentally friendly technologies are managed within New York State. The bill mandates the Department of Economic Development and the Empire State Development Corporation to review contracts involving state-owned premises leased to private entities for solar shingle manufacturing, electric vehicle charging networks, advanced driver-assistance systems, and supercomputer hardware. The aim is to ensure that these contracts do not involve waste, fraud, and abuse, thus maximizing government efficiency and productivity.

Contention

However, debates surrounding A08096 highlight concerns about the balance between state oversight and private enterprise freedom. Proponents argue that the bill is crucial for preventing corruption and mismanagement of public resources, an essential factor in overseeing large governmental contracts. In contrast, critics fear that the extensive review process could deter businesses from seeking contracts with the state, potentially stifling innovation and slowing down the development of cutting-edge technologies essential for environmental sustainability. The overarching question relates to finding a balance between ensuring accountability and promoting a thriving business ecosystem.