New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A01225

Introduced
1/9/25  
Refer
1/9/25  

Caption

Prohibits a person convicted of rebellion or insurrection against the authority of the United States or the laws thereof under 18 U.S.C. Section 2383 from holding an elected office, a judgeship, or an appointed position in the state.

Summary

Bill A01225, known as the 'Restrict Insurrectionists from Office Taking (RIOT) Act', seeks to amend the public officers law in New York State. The bill specifically prohibits individuals who have been convicted of rebellion or insurrection against the United States, as defined under 18 U.S.C. ยง 2383, from holding any elected office, judgeship, or appointed position within the state. This legislative measure aims to ensure that individuals who have committed acts against the authority of the United States are barred from positions of power and influence in state governance.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would create a new legal barrier for individuals with specific convictions, thereby amending the public officers law to include this prohibition. It would affect the eligibility of certain individuals for public service roles, potentially reshaping the landscape of political candidacy and appointments in New York State. The bill aligns with broader efforts to uphold democratic principles by preventing those who have engaged in insurrection from participating in government.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill A01225 appears to be generally supportive among its sponsors and proponents, who view it as a necessary measure to protect the integrity of public office. However, there may be concerns regarding the implications of such a law on civil rights and the potential for political misuse. As the bill has not yet been voted on, the full spectrum of legislative sentiment remains to be seen.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise regarding the definition of 'rebellion or insurrection' and the implications of barring individuals from office based on their convictions. Critics may argue that this could lead to political disenfranchisement or be used as a tool for partisan advantage. Supporters, on the other hand, emphasize the importance of maintaining the integrity of elected positions and preventing those who have committed serious offenses against the state from holding power.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NY S00888

Prohibits a person convicted of rebellion or insurrection against the authority of the United States or the laws thereof under 18 U.S.C. Section 2383 from holding civil office in the state.

NY A03289

Prohibits a person convicted of rebellion or insurrection against the authority of the United States or the laws thereof under 18 U.S.C. Section 2383 from holding civil office in the state.

NY S04074

Prohibits a person convicted of rebellion or insurrection under federal law from state or municipal employment.

NY S03691

Prohibits a person convicted of rebellion or insurrection under federal law from state or municipal employment.

NY A06349

Prohibits a person convicted of rebellion or insurrection under federal law from state or municipal employment.

NJ A3220

Prohibits dual elective office holding and holding of elective office and public office or position.

NJ A3828

Provides full forfeiture of pension of elected or appointed official convicted of any crime touching office.

NJ S2544

Provides full forfeiture of pension of elected or appointed official convicted of any crime touching office.

PA SR51

Designating January 6, 2025, as "1/6 Day" in Pennsylvania to honor the law enforcement officers who defended our nation against the insurrection at the United States Capitol and the members of the Congress of the United States who proceeded to vote despite threats to their personal safety, on the four-year anniversary of the January 6, 2021, insurrection.

NY S07561

Enacts the "Wandering Officers Act" prohibiting provisional or permanent appointment of a person as a police officer if such person has previously been fired as a police officer from any jurisdiction within or without the state, if such person left a position as a police officer either while under an investigation or while being the subject of a disciplinary action which could result in termination from any jurisdiction within or without the state, or if such person resigned while criminal charges were pending stemming from actions committed while on duty as a police officer in any jurisdiction within or without the state.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.