The elderly compose a major segment of New York State's population. The particular needs and concerns of these persons must be considered in the planning and implementation of all State programs and services affecting their health or well-being. For this reason, it is the policy of the State, pursuant to article 19-J of the Executive Law, that the Office for the Aging both advise and assist the Governor in developing policies addressing the needs of the elderly, and coordinate State programs and services affecting the health or well-being of older persons.

THEREFORE, I, Hugh L. Carey, Governor of the State of New York, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the State of New York, in order to enable the Office for the Aging to more effectively exercise its powers and duties, do hereby direct the Office for the Aging, in accordance with the procedures hereinafter set forth, to review and report upon proposed legislation, regulations, orders and plans involved in the implementation and development of programs which have a significant impact upon the health or well-being of the aging of the State and which the Governor determines to be appropriate for such review.

I. Submission, Reviews and Recommendations

A. Each division within the Executive Department and all other departments of the State, shall submit to the Office for the Aging proposed legislation, regulations, orders and plans subject to review by the Office for the Aging. Such matters shall, in the case of proposed legislation, be submitted at least 30 days prior to the regular session of the Legislature at which such legislation is to be proposed, and, in the case of regulations, orders and plans, at least 30 days prior to the date they are to take effect.

B. The Office for the Aging shall, within 15 days, review and report upon all matters submitted to it. Reports prepared by the Office for the Aging should be returned to the appropriate division or department, and the Office of the Secretary to the Governor, and shall, to the extent practicable, contain comments as to:

— the impact of the proposed legislation, regulation or order upon the aging,

— the relationship and impact of such proposals on existing programs affecting the aging,

— recommendations upon (i) the desirability of such proposals, and (ii) modifications that would enhance the impact of the proposal upon the aging or aid in the implementation of the proposal.

C. Each division and department shall notify the Office for the Aging and the Office of the Secretary to the Governor of any action taken by it as a result of the recommendations made by the Office for the Aging.

II. Cooperation

All State agencies whose programs or policies significantly affect the health or well-being of the aging shall cooperate with the Office for the Aging in carrying out these responsibilities.