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NY Governor signs Assemblywoman Rajkumar’s procurement reform bill into law

The bill was also sponsored by New York Senator Luis Sepulveda.

Jenifer Rajkumar / Image- X (@JeniferRajkumar)

Governor Kathy Hochul of New York State has signed Assembly Bill A8864, which was spearheaded by Indian American Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar into law. 

The legislation, which seeks to streamline public contracting, reduce delays, and accelerate critical infrastructure projects such as affordable housing, schools, and transit systems, represents a significant step toward modernizing the state’s procurement process. 

Assemblywoman Rajkumar’s bill transitions the public comment process for contracts over $100,000 to an online platform, replacing the long-standing requirement for in-person hearings. This move is expected to save an average of 20 days per project, significantly reducing the time it takes to launch infrastructure work. By making the process digital, the legislation also enhances accessibility for the public and simplifies administrative procedures.

“The Greatest City in the World deserves the greatest infrastructure, powered by the latest innovations in construction, design, and procurement. My bill A8864 takes the procurement process into the 21st century and has now been signed into law, “ Rajkumar said.

“I was also proud to work with my Albany colleagues to pass A10543, authorizing progressive design build on City projects. This innovative project delivery method allows the City to select a single entity for design and building from the start, shaving years off delivery times and saving millions in taxpayer dollars,” the Assemblywoman added.

The reform comes in response to years of inefficiencies in the city’s procurement system, where 64 percent of capital projects were not completed on time and half exceeded budgets, collectively costing taxpayers $54.5 billion. By addressing these inefficiencies, the legislation aims to save both time and money, ensuring taxpayer dollars are used more effectively.

Governor Hochul lauded the legislation, emphasizing its role in modernizing government processes and expediting essential projects for New Yorkers. The bill’s signing is expected to catalyze progress across a range of city initiatives, from housing to energy infrastructure.
 



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