NY S05269

Authorizes New York State and municipalities to establish permanent COVID-19 memorials in collaboration with municipal parks departments and under guidance from the Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation

Creates the "COVID-19 Permanent Memorial Fund" held jointly by the State Comptroller and Commissioner of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

Fund may receive state appropriations, grants, gifts, and bequests, with moneys used exclusively for establishing and maintaining permanent COVID-19 memorials

Municipalities may apply for grants from the fund to establish and maintain memorials, with financial oversight from the Comptroller's office

Memorial designs and locations must be selected through a community-driven process prioritizing input from those most impacted, including family members of COVID-19 victims