What's happening
This bill expands the definition of "minority group member" in state contracts to use the term "Hispanic/Latino" instead of just "Hispanic."
Why it matters
Modernizes and clarifies terminology. By changing "Hispanic" to "Hispanic/Latino," the law better reflects current language and recognizes that some people may identify as Latino but not Hispanic, or vice versa, making the category more inclusive.
Potentially expands eligibility. The updated term could allow more individuals and businesses to qualify as minority group members for state contracting opportunities, especially those who identify as Latino but not specifically as Hispanic.
Impacts diversity in state contracting. This change could lead to greater diversity among firms participating in state contracts, as a broader range of minority-owned businesses may now be recognized and included.
Signals cultural sensitivity and responsiveness. The amendment demonstrates state recognition of evolving identity terms and a willingness to align official language with how communities self-identify, potentially fostering greater trust and participation.
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Who cares
Headline styles
Broaden Minority Contract Definition
Plain English, a few words. Used as the page title.
Sponsors
1 Co-sponsor
History
- Referred to finance
- Delivered to senate
- Passed assembly
- Advanced to third reading cal.883
- Reported
- Reported referred to ways and means
- Referred to governmental operations
Companion bill
The same bill in the other chamber. A bill becomes law when one version passes both houses and the governor signs it, so either number can carry it.
Broaden Minority Contract Definition
In Senate Committee · Finance · Sponsor Marisol Alcantara
Full text
1 pageUnderlined is new[Struck] is removedOfficial text on nysenate.gov ↗
STATE OF NEW YORK
9820
IN ASSEMBLY
February 13, 2018
Introduced by M. of A. BICHOTTE -- read once and referred to the Committee on Governmental Operations
AN ACT to amend the executive law, in relation to expanding the definition of "minority group member" for purposes of participation by minority group members and women with respect to state contracts
The People of the State of New York, represented in Senate and Assembly, do enact as follows:
Section 1. Paragraph (b) of subdivision 8 of section 310 of the executive law, as added by chapter 261 of the laws of 1988, is amended to read as follows:
(b) [Hispanic] Hispanic/Latino persons of Mexican, Puerto Rican, Dominican, Cuban, Central or South American of either Indian or Hispanic origin, regardless of race;
§ 2. This act shall take effect immediately; provided, however, that the amendments to paragraph (b) of subdivision 8 of section 310 of the executive law made by section one of this act shall not affect the expiration of such section and shall be deemed expired therewith.
EXPLANATION--Matter in italics (underscored) is new; matter in brackets
[ ] is old law to be omitted.
LBD14704-01-8
Reflowed for reading: line numbers and page breaks removed. Cite the official text.
Summaries, headlines and scores are AI-generated from the official bill text. How we score bills. Source: NYS Open Legislation.