Provides free use of state parks for members or citizens of state or federally recognized Native American nations

Showing the cosponsors who are on Agora, A to Z. The official record may list more.

• Democratic1

Shown in neutral colors by design; Agora is non-partisan.

◆ The sponsor's argument

Why Joseph P. Addabbo Jr. says this is needed

This bill would include members or citizens of state and federally recognized Native American Nations as among those who are able to access New York State parks and campsites free of charge. Prior to European colonization, the modern boundaries of New York State encompassed at least fifteen Native American Nations. New York's parklands preserve the natural state of lands as they have existed for millennia, making them historically and culturally significant to the indigenous communities of New York State. The federal government allows free entrance for members or citizens of American Indian Nations or traditionally associated groups to National Parks for non-recreational activities, and the State of Minnesota allows American Indians who are members or citizens of federally recognized Nations within the state to access state parks and recreation areas free of charge. By providing free access to state parks and campsites to members or citizens of Native American Nations, New York State is honoring the connection of Native Americans to their ancestral lands.

This is the sponsor's own case for the bill, quoted from their memorandum. It is not Agora's description of what the bill does.