NY A08284

Establishes the New York State Freedmen's Bureau to develop programs for "American Freedmen" (descendants of persons enslaved in the United States) focusing on community life, education, and workforce development

Defines "American Freedmen" as individuals with at least one ancestor enslaved in the U.S. who was emancipated by the Emancipation Proclamation (1863) or 13th Amendment (1865)

Directs the bureau to connect American Freedmen with their lineage through genealogical research and other methods

Designates American Freedmen as the sole beneficiaries of the bureau's programs, with the bureau serving as central administrator for any recommended programs that become law

Appropriates $50,000,000 from the state general fund to carry out the bureau's purposes