S4389

The New York State Senate passed legislation Tuesday that would remove barriers preventing individuals with color blindness from becoming police officers. Senate Print 4389, sponsored by Sen. May, passed on a 59-1 roll call vote, with only Sen. Brisport voting in opposition. The bill amends Executive Law to allow color blind individuals to apply for law enforcement positions without blanket disqualification. Sen. May said the measure was developed by a former session assistant with personal experience facing discrimination due to color blindness and expressed hope the Governor would sign it into law after vetoing similar legislation last year. Sen. Oberacker, who is color blind himself, testified that the condition does not affect his job performance as a senator and praised the bill for expanding opportunities in first responder and law enforcement ranks. Sen. Bailey called the measure an example of meaningful diversity in hiring and highlighted that the bill originated from a session assistant's idea, underscoring the impact interns and fellows can have on legislation. The bill takes effect immediately upon enactment.