Sen. José M. Serrano

The bill creates arts and cultural districts statewide to nurture growing arts communities in areas historically lacking state support. The arts are transformative, serve as an economic engine, and promote social discussion and unity.

Emphasized that access to healthy food is foundational and that chip technology on EBT cards will prevent benefit skimming in communities like East Harlem and the South Bronx. Thanked Assemblymember González-Rojas for Assembly leadership on the measure.

As parks committee chair, praised the capital funding for the state park system, noting its importance for public health and outdoor recreation, particularly post-pandemic.

The bill is important for supporting arts and culture throughout New York State, which are foundational to society and the economy. It will help create criteria for arts and cultural districts and provide technical assistance to help them grow.

Argued the bill addresses health disparities in underserved communities by promoting cultural awareness and competency in the medical profession, leading to better health outcomes and community-healthcare connections.

Expressed support for capital funding for state parks system maintenance and restoration, noting the 100th anniversary of New York's state parks system and the proven physical and mental health benefits of park access.

Confirmed the $53 million park security allocation from the Executive Budget was accepted in the Senate one-house budget and would be included in the final budget for enhanced security including cameras and additional Park Police.

The bill empowers local arts and cultural organizations as stakeholders in neighborhood development and highlights communities. The arts provide education, entertainment, and therapeutic benefits while serving as a major economic engine, with successful models already established in other states.

Arts and music education are transformational and provide tremendous benefits to students, but many schools are not reaching minimum standards. This bill directs an audit to ensure compliance with arts education requirements.

Sponsor explained the bill would create an additional layer of protection against pesticide drift onto playgrounds, with DEC and Department of Health developing enforcement plans, notification requirements, and 24-hour cleanup timelines. Noted that direct spraying in playgrounds is already illegal, and cited EPA findings on long-term health effects of low-level pesticide exposure to children.

Praised increased arts and culture funding as economically important and transformative for communities recovering from pandemic.

The bill will require cultural competency training for medical professionals to address health disparities in underserved communities and improve communication and health outcomes.