Establishes the commission for the modernization and revitalization of the state university of New York downstate medical center which directs such commission to conduct a study to examine services that should be offered at SUNY downstate medical center; directs the commission to submit a report and make recommendations to the legislature.
NEW YORK STATE ASSEMBLY MEMORANDUM IN SUPPORT OF LEGISLATION submitted in accordance with Assembly Rule III, Sec 1(f)
BILL NUMBER: A9421
SPONSOR: Cunningham TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the executive law, in relation to establishing the
commission for the modernization and revitalization of the state univer-
sity of New York downstate medical center
PURPOSE OR GENERAL IDEA OF BILL:
To create a commission to review and provide insight on the modernation
and sustainability of SUNY Downstate
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:
Section 1 amends the executive law by adding article 49-c which esta-
blihses the guidelines of the study the commission is tasked to perform,
which services must be required to continue after the commission's find-
ings are reported, the makeup of the commission appointees, the compen-
sation the commission members are entitled to, the commission's bylaws,
the information the commissioner of health must submit to the commis-
sion, how the commission's liason is appointed, other required recommen-
dations, and the outline of the report due by the commission
Section 2 sets the effective date
JUSTIFICATION:
Establishing a commission designated to studying the modernization,
revitalization, and sustainability of SUNY Downstate is pivotal for
ensuring the institution's continued growth and relevance. SUNY Down-
state, as a vital academic and healthcare hub in Brooklyn, plays an,
integral role in shaping the region's socio-economic landscape. Given
the ongoing issues regarding the fiscal difficulties, implementing a
commission to review and report on various aspects of the institution
would help to pinpoint areas where the institution can perform more
efficiently. Through the commission's efforts, stakeholders can address
pressing challenges, identify opportunities, and chart a course for
strategic development that aligns with the institution's mission and
community needs.
The commission's composition, inclusive of representatives from the
United University Professions Union, Civil Service Employees Associ-
ation, Public Employees Federation, and New York State Correctional
Officers and Police Benevolent Association, underscores a commitment to
addressing the diverse needs of SUNY Downstate's workforce. These unions
bring invaluable insights into fair labor practices, employee well-be-
ing, and the preservation of high-quality education and healthcare
services. Their involvement ensures that modernization efforts prior-
itize the interests and concerns of faculty, staff, and healthcare
professionals, fostering a collaborative approach that supports the
institution's mission and its workforce.
Furthermore, the commission benefits from the inclusion of community
stakeholders, including representatives from Brooklyn Community Boards,
the Kings County Borough President, and the mayor's office. This
diverse representation ensures that the local community's voice is
central to discussions surrounding SUNY Downstate's future. By engaging
with these stakeholders, the commission can tap into essential insights,
align institutional goals with broader city and state priorities, and
foster transparency and accountability in decision-making processes.
Together, these community leaders provide crucial perspectives that
guide SUNY Downstate's strategic development, ensuring its continued
relevance and impact within the Brooklyn community and beyond.
This commission would be tasked to evaluate the current services offered
by SUNY Downstate, provide recommendations on how to strengthen current
services, and assess the need for shifting the priorities of certain
departments. This allows the hospital to reevaluate which services are
most needed by the community and which can be redirected to better serve
those being served. This ensures that the hospital remains relevant and
modernizes the practices and services being offered to the community.
In conclusion, the establishment of a commission dedicated to SUNY Down-
state's modernization, revitalization, and sustainability is essential
for ensuring the institution's long-term viability and resilience. By
bringing together diverse stakeholders, including unions, community
representatives, political leaders, and experts, the commission can
foster collaboration, innovation, and transparency in addressing the
institution's challenges and seizing growth opportunities. Through stra-
tegic planning and collective effort, SUNY Downstate can continue to
fulfill its vital role as a cornerstone of education, healthcare, and
community development in Brooklyn and beyond.
PRIOR LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
New bill.
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS FOR STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS:
None.
EFFECTIVE DATE:
Immediately
