Civic Agendas NYC
Bills › Int 0445-2026
Int 0445-2026 Bill Laid Over in Committee

Requiring the department of small business services to expand the business pathways program.

Where it stands: In the Committee on Small Business; last step: small business postponed a decision on Oct 29, 2026.

  1. Introduced
  2. Committee hearing (current step)
  3. Committee vote
  4. Council vote
  5. Mayor
  6. Law

Official summary

This bill would require the Department of Small Business Services (SBS), in consultation with the Office of Resident Economic Empowerment and Sustainability (REES) of the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA), to expand the Business Pathways program for NYCHA residents to encompass businesses beyond catering and childcare, including creative fields, retail and cosmetology. SBS would offer additional business pathways programs at the discretion of the commissioner. SBS would offer the Business Pathways programs free-of-charge. The programs would assist NYCHA residents in formalizing their businesses, including via a professional business education course; mentorship and professional coaching; support in obtaining business licenses; guidance on business operations, marketing and financial structures; funding to complete required health and safety trainings; support in completing provider applications; and help for certain businesses to secure commercial space.

Timeline

  1. Thu, Jan 29, 2026
    Introduced in the Council
    Formally read into the record at a Stated Meeting.
    City Council: “Introduced by Council”
  2. Thu, Jan 29, 2026
    Sent to committee
    Assigned to a committee, which must hold a hearing before any vote.
    City Council: “Referred to Comm by Council” · meeting
  3. Thu, Oct 29, 2026
    Public hearing: Small Business
    Council members heard testimony from the public and city agencies.
    Committee on Small Business: “Hearing Held by Committee” · meeting
  4. Thu, Oct 29, 2026
    Public hearing: Early Childhood Education
    Council members heard testimony from the public and city agencies.
    Subcommittee on Early Childhood Education: “Hearing Held by Committee” · meeting
  5. Thu, Oct 29, 2026
    Early Childhood Education postponed a decision
    No vote yet; the item can come back at a later meeting.
    Subcommittee on Early Childhood Education: “Laid Over by Subcommittee” · meeting
  6. Thu, Oct 29, 2026
    Small Business postponed a decision
    No vote yet; the item can come back at a later meeting.
    Committee on Small Business: “Laid Over by Committee” · meeting

How members voted

No roll-call votes recorded yet.