New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S07782

Introduced
5/6/25  
Refer
5/6/25  
Engrossed
6/12/25  
Refer
6/12/25  

Caption

Requires the department of health to enter into a contract with an entity experienced in maintaining genealogical research databases for the digitalization and indexing of certain vital records.

Impact

The implementation of S07782 will require the Department of Health to oversee the development of an online genealogical research database, which will be beneficial for researchers and individuals seeking access to vital records. The bill specifies that this digitization process will incur no direct costs to the state, as the qualified entity will provide the service in exchange for the ability to offer the database to its own customers. This financial aspect suggests a mutually beneficial arrangement aimed at expanding public access.

Summary

Bill S07782 mandates the New York Department of Health to contract with an organization experienced in genealogical research to digitize and index vital records including birth, death, marriage, and dissolution of marriage certificates. The intent behind this bill is to enhance accessibility to these records for genealogical research and historical documentation, as well as to streamline the management of vital records through digital means. This move is seen as a step forward in leveraging technology to preserve and disseminate historical data.

Contention

While the bill appears advantageous for historical and genealogical research purposes, there are potential points of contention surrounding privacy and the handling of sensitive information. The legislation specifies that social security numbers on records will be redacted, which addresses some privacy concerns; however, discussions may arise regarding the access rights to personal data and how it may be utilized by third parties. Furthermore, there may be concerns regarding the adequacy of oversight in the digital handling of these sensitive records.

Companion Bills

NY A08314

Same As Requires the department of health to enter into a contract with an entity experienced in maintaining genealogical research databases for the digitalization and indexing of certain vital records.

Previously Filed As

NY A07228

Authorizes the commissioner of health to issue copies and transcripts of death certificates, which do not include the cause of death or medical certifications, for genealogical and research purposes.

NY S03438

Requires governmental and certain nongovernmental entities to publish public records proactively on the internet that are of public interest.

NY A06831

Requires governmental and certain nongovernmental entities to publish public records proactively on the internet that are of public interest.

NY A08371

Requires certain municipalities to establish fire departments to oversee firefighter entities within the municipality and ensure safe staffing of such firefighter entities.

NY S01625

Relates to prohibiting New York city boards of elections from entering into contracts for certain services related to the conduct of elections with any entity that does not employ union labor.

NY A02256

Relates to prohibiting New York city boards of elections from entering into contracts for certain services related to the conduct of elections with any entity that does not employ union labor.

NY S08608

Requires contractors and subcontractors working on covered projects submit their payrolls or transcripts to the fiscal officer; directs the department to create a database for such records that are publicly available for inspection.

NY A09265

Requires contractors and subcontractors working on covered projects submit their payrolls or transcripts to the fiscal officer; directs the department to create a database for such records that are publicly available for inspection.

NY S01624

Relates to prohibiting boards of elections from entering into contracts for certain services related to the conduct of elections with entities that have made any political campaign donations of any amount in the last ten years.

NY A01558

Relates to prohibiting boards of elections from entering into contracts for certain services related to the conduct of elections with entities that have made any political campaign donations of any amount in the last ten years.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.