Enables the state dormitory authority to construct and finance dormitories and related facilities for the St. Andrew's Foundation

BILL NUMBER:S1642

Title of bill

An act to amend the public authorities law, in relation to the financing and construction of certain facilities for the St. Andrew's Foundation, the Scottish Society of Hudson's Valley, Ltd.

Purpose or general idea of bill

To enable the St. Andrew's Foundation, the Scottish Society of Hudson's Valley, Ltd., to obtain funding and enter into contracts through the dormitory authority for the acquisition, financing, refinancing, design construction, improvement, renovation, equipping, furnishing or otherwise providing for facilities within the Hudson Valley.

Summary of specific provisions

Section 1 amends paragraph (b) of subdivision 2 of section 1676 of the public authorities law by adding a new undesignated subparagraph including the St. Andrew's Foundation, the Scottish Society of Hudson's Valley, Ltd., in the list of entities deemed to be a "dormitory".

Section 2 amends subdivision 1 of section 1680 of the public authorities law by adding a new undesignated paragraph including the St. Andrew's Foundation, the Scottish Society of Hudson's Valley, Ltd., in the list of entities deemed to be an "educational institution".

Section 3 provides that any contracts entered into by the dormitory authority pursuant to this act shall be deemed state contracts.

Section 4 provides that this act shall take effect immediately.

Justification

St. Andrew's Foundation, the Scottish Society of Hudson's Valley, Ltd., is a not-for-profit charitable organization formed to promote an appreciation of Scottish history, heritage and traditions, including Scottish influence on the settlement and evolution of America. The organization is creating a permanent venue for one of the earliest Scottish Games in the United States, the Capital District Games, and is in the process of creating a National Scottish Cultural Center, Scottish Cultural Museum, National School of Piping and Dance, and Highland Games Fields in the Town of Bethlehem, Albany County. Inclusion within the funding apparatus of the Dormitory Authority will significantly enhance the organization's ability to achieve its goals, and will enrich the cultural landscape of the Hudson Valley.

Legislative history

2009/2010 - S.526/A.1312 Remained in the Senate and Assembly

Committees on Corporations, Authorities & Commissions 2007/2008 - S.8749/A.11835 Remained in the Senate Committee on Rules and the Assembly Committee on Corporations, Authorities & Commissions

Fiscal implications

None.

Effective date

Immediately.