2022 Legislative Session
Ongoing Edits:Pardon the Appearance
2021 in the Rearview
In January 2021, we welcomed a new cohort of representatives at the New York State Capitol. From seasoned veterans to eager freshman, it was clear that their views and priorities were diverse.
This Summer, our state also welcomed a new Governor, Kathy Hochul. The 57th Governor to New York State will have a new administration and bring different energy to the marbled walls of the Capitol.
2021 Legislative Initiatives Page
The Year Ahead
In 2022, NYLA members will continue to have opportunities to speak up & act on issues that directly impact their community with State and Federal officials.
The Director of Governmental Relations & Advocacy will be working hand-in-hand with the Legislative Committee to determine issues and bills that members can impact through their advocacy.
It’s time for libraries to be given the spotlight, and for the State to recognize who they are – community.
2021-2022 Advocacy Expansion FAQ
New Laws Affecting Libraries
Chapter 1
This law extends the current authorization for public bodies, including library boards, to meet remotely or by conference call for the remainder of the declared state of emergency.
Historic Documents
The Legislature
Assembly Libraries & Education Technology Committee
New York State Senate Directory
New York State Assembly Directory
New York State Assembly Website
The State Budget
The Executive Budget was released on January 18, 2022. Governor Hochul proposed the following:
Executive Budget Briefing Book
- Library Aid $96.1 (+2M increase from 2021)
- Library Construction $14M (-20M reduction from 2021)
- Release of $150k Love Your Library Fund
Policy Initiatives
Updated January 19, 2022.
Media Literacy in New York State
These proposals address access, delivery and development.
Formation of Media Literacy Coalition (Press Release)
Media Literacy Now Support Letter
Media Literacy Profiles (Rack Card)
A6153A (Rosenthal) LMS Professional Development
A6225A (Rosenthal) LMS Requirement
A6142A (Rosenthal) Media Literacy Advisory Group
A8222 (Rosenthal) Media Literacy Standards
School Library Facility Modernization
The current regulation that defines a school library facility has not been updated in over twenty years.
This proposal would address the antiquated metrics within NY-CRR 91.1 and insert characteristics associated with a successful, 21st century school library.
S6053 (Kaplan) / A6339 (Jensen)
Extension of Petition Requirement Reduction
The election of library trustees and the petition for ballot access for some libraries continues to pose a health and safety issue for the 2022 cycle due to the pandemic.
This bill extends the provisions of Chapter 70 of the Laws of 2021 which reduced the number of signatures needed for 259 and school district library elections to 25.
Referred to Senate Libraries Committee.
In the Works
There are nearly a dozen other initiatives currently in the research or draft phase. Check back throughout the year to learn more.
Funding Initiatives
NYS Library Operating Aid: $123.1M
Increased aid is needed to support the foundational framework of New York State libraries, improving the lives of residents of all ages, abilities and economic status.
Adequate funding is needed to support school, public, and academic libraries and library systems.
NYS Library Construction Aid: $45M
Increased investment is needed to maintain and develop the physical infrastructure of New York State’s libraries, in order to ensure a safe, accessible and sustainable environment for the future.
The New York State Library estimates the deferred maintenance need at over $1.5B.
Over half of New York’s libraries are over 60 years old.
Investments allow libraries to invest in energy-efficiency and support the local construction industry
History of Construction Aid Chart