N.Y.
State Technology Law Section 501
Definitions
1.
“Automated decision-making tool” shall mean any software that uses algorithms, computational models, or artificial intelligence techniques, or a combination thereof, to automate, support, or replace human decision-making. “Automated decision-making tool” shall not include any software used primarily for basic computerized processes, such as calculators, spellcheck tools, autocorrect functions, spreadsheets, electronic communications, or any tool that relates only to internal management affairs such as ordering office supplies or processing payments, and that do not materially affect the rights, liberties, benefits, safety or welfare of any individual within the state. “Automated decision-making tools” shall not include “automated employment decision-making tools” as defined in § 401 (Definitions)section four hundred one of this chapter.2.
“Meaningful human review” means review, oversight and control of the automated decision-making process by one or more individuals who understand the risks, limitations, and functionality of, and are trained to use, the automated decision-making tool and who have the authority to intervene or alter the decision under review, including but not limited to the ability to approve, deny, or modify any decision recommended or made by the automated tool.3.
“Government agency” shall mean:(a)
the state or civil division thereof;(b)
a county, city, town or village;(c)
a school district, board of cooperative educational services, vocational education and extension board or a school district as enumerated in section one of chapter five hundred sixty-six of the laws of nineteen hundred sixty-seven, as amended;(d)
the state university of New York;(e)
the city university of New York;(f)
a public improvement or special district including police or fire districts;(g)
a public authority, commission or public benefit corporation; or(h)
any other public corporation, agency, instrumentality or unit of government which exercises governmental power under the laws of this state. * NB Effective December 12, 2026
Source:
Section 501 — Definitions, https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/laws/STT/501 (updated Dec. 26, 2025; accessed Jan. 3, 2026).
