NY Municipalities: Is Your Website Ready for the New .Gov Law?

In today's digital world, a municipality's website is often the primary way residents access crucial information, services, and updates. Recognizing this, New York State has taken steps to enhance the security, trustworthiness, and functionality of these online hubs. Governor Kathy Hochul recently signed legislation (Chapter 609 of the Laws of 2024, amended by Chapter 97 of the Laws of 2025) that introduces new requirements for municipal websites, most notably mandating the use of a .gov domain.

If you're a town, village, or other municipal official in New York, understanding these changes is crucial. Here’s what you need to know and how Evolution Marketing, your local Webster, NY digital partner, can help you navigate this transition smoothly.

What Does the New Law Require?

The core components of this legislation aim to standardize and improve municipal online presences:

1. Official Website: Municipal corporations (like towns and villages) with a population of 1,500 or more (based on the latest federal decennial census) are now required to establish and maintain an official, regularly updated website. Municipalities under this population threshold must comply "to the extent practicable."
2. .Gov Domain Name: This is a key change. Affected municipalities must use a .gov domain for their official website. This domain suffix is restricted to verified government entities, immediately signaling legitimacy to users. (Good news: obtaining a .gov domain is free through the federal Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency - CISA - via get.gov).
3. Required Content: The law mandates that these websites must post specific information, including:
   • Notices for public meetings, hearings, and elections.
   • Agendas and minutes (or unabridged recordings/transcripts) for municipal meetings as required under the Open Meetings Law (OML).
   • Current local codes, laws, and resolutions.
   • Recent financial documentation (annual reports, current budget, audit reports, fiscal performance plans).
4. Effective Date: Municipalities need to comply with these requirements by December 21, 2025.

Why the Mandate? The Benefits of a .Gov Website

Shifting to a .gov domain and ensuring specific content is available isn't just about compliance; it offers significant advantages:

• Enhanced Trust & Credibility: The .gov domain is universally recognized as official. It assures residents they are accessing legitimate government information and services, distinguishing your site from unofficial sources or potential scams.
• Improved Security: .gov domains require verification, making it harder for malicious actors to impersonate your municipality online. CISA also automatically adds .gov domains to the HSTS preload list, enforcing secure HTTPS connections and protecting visitors.
• Clear Communication: A standardized .gov address presents a unified, professional image and makes it easier for residents to find and rely on your official communications.
• Meeting Resident Expectations: Citizens increasingly expect secure, accessible, and reliable online services from their local government.

Beyond Compliance: An Opportunity for Modernization

This new law presents a perfect opportunity to evaluate and upgrade your municipality's overall online presence. While ensuring .gov compliance and posting required content, consider:

• Accessibility: Is your website accessible to all residents, including those with disabilities? Compliance with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) is crucial (and often required by other state and federal mandates like NYS Policy NYS-P08-005 and the ADA).
• User Experience: Is your site easy to navigate? Is information logically organized? Is it mobile-friendly?
• Functionality: Does your site allow for easy updates by staff to post meeting minutes, alerts, and news promptly?

How Evolution Marketing Can Help

Navigating new regulations, domain registration, website redesigns, and content updates can seem daunting. That's where Evolution Marketing comes in. As a local Webster, NY-based company specializing in comprehensive web design and digital marketing, we understand the needs of New York municipalities.

We can assist with:

• Securing your .gov domain: Guiding you through the free registration process with CISA.
• Website Design & Development: Creating a modern, secure, and user-friendly website that meets all legal requirements.
• Accessibility Compliance: Ensuring your website adheres to WCAG standards so all residents have equal access.
• Content Management Systems (CMS): Implementing easy-to-use systems for your staff to manage updates and post required documents efficiently.
• Content Strategy & Creation: Helping you organize and present information clearly.
• Ongoing Maintenance & Support: Keeping your site secure and up-to-date long after launch.

Don't Wait Until the Deadline

The December 21, 2025 deadline will approach quickly. Being proactive ensures a smooth transition and avoids a last-minute scramble. Taking action now allows time for planning, development, and training.

Ready to ensure your municipality's website is compliant, secure, and effectively serves your community?

Contact Evolution Marketing today for a free consultation. Let's discuss how we can help you meet the new requirements and enhance your digital presence.

Evolution Marketing
1661 Empire Blvd.
Webster, NY 14580

Phone: 585-981-8463

Email: [email protected]