New York Gov. Kathy Hochul declared racism a public health emergency and has implemented new laws to combat discrimination.
Summary
- Kathy Hochul has declared racism a “public health crisis,” signing an entire package of legislation Dec. 23 aimed at addressing discrimination and racial injustice in the state.
- “For far too long, communities of color in New York have been held back by systemic racism and inequitable treatment,” Hochul said in a statement last week.
- “I am proud to sign legislation that addresses this crisis head-on, addressing racism, expanding equity, and improving access for all.”
- The legislation has been spearheaded by state assembly members Karines Reyes and Yuh-Line Niou, Sens.
- Legislation S.6639-A/A.6896-A will require that the state collect specific demographic information to keep a “more accurate and relevant public record” of Asian-American populations in New York.