Relates to establishing the Women's rights history trail

1 Co-sponsor

• Mark Grisanti

BILL NUMBER:S3506

Title of bill

An act to amend the parks, recreation and historic pres- ervation law, in relation to creating the "Women's rights history trail" program

Purpose

To promote education and awareness of the struggle for women's rights throughout history by creating a "Women's Rights History trail" and to promote travel and tourism throughout the state.

Summary of provisions

Section one amends the economic development law by adding a new article 42 which creates a "Women's Rights History Trail Program." The legisla- tive intent is provided. The terms "Women's rights history trail" and 'Women's rights history passport" are both defined. The general func- tions, powers and duties of the commissioner of economic development are outlined. Duties include: the creation and implementation of the trail; dissemination of educational material; development of vacation itiner- aries based on the trail; and the development of discount packages. The commissioner shall work in conjunction with the commissioner of parks, recreation and historical preservation, as well as any local government official or entity to identify properties and sites to be included along-the trail. The commissioner of the department of transportation shall cooperate with the creation of the trail and is authorized to permit the installation and maintenance of sign age relating to the trail on the state highways. Official names of such highways, however, shall not be changed.

Section two provides the effective date.

Justification

The women's rights movement is one of the three great protest traditions in the history of the United States. New York women were instrumental in the creation of the women's rights movement which led to securing the passage of the nineteenth amendment to the Constitu- tion which gave women the right to vote. The women's movement expanded and played a critical role in both shaping policies and creating legal reform in areas of education and economic and social welfare. Several rights that we now take for granted such as the right of women to attend college, own prop- erty, keep their own earnings, and have custody of their children were gained through the women's movement. In recognition of the contribution of the great women and men who fought for equality, this legislation creates a "Women's Rights History Trail" to educate people about this chapter in our nation's history. All throughout our state, there are historical landmarks such as the Susan B. Anthony House in Rochester, Elizabeth Stanton House in Senaca Falls, Carrie Chapman Catt's home in New Rochelle, Harriet Tubman Home for the Aged in Auburn, and the gravesites of both Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Carrie Chapman Catt in the Bronx. The "Women's Rights History Trail" will promote tour- ism throughout the state and create revenue as people travel to the various sites along the trail.

Legislative history

A.9952-A, 2008 passed assembly. Same as S.7034-A (Robach), 2008 passed senate. A.1146, 2009/2010 referred to tourism, arts and sports development.

Fiscal implications

To be determined. However, the "Women's Rights History Trail" will create revenue for the state by attracting tourists to the sites along the trail.

Effective date

This act shall take effect immediately.