New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A01312

Introduced
1/9/25  
Refer
1/9/25  

Caption

Grants the legislature the authority to direct the attorney-general by concurrent resolution to inquire into matters concerning the public peace, public safety and public justice.

Summary

Bill A01312 amends the executive law to grant the New York State Legislature the authority to direct the Attorney General to conduct inquiries into matters concerning public peace, safety, and justice. This change allows the legislature to initiate investigations through a concurrent resolution, thereby enhancing legislative oversight over the Attorney General's actions. The bill outlines the procedures for such inquiries, including the appointment of deputies by the Attorney General and the handling of funds for these investigations, which would be managed without the usual state audits, ensuring a degree of confidentiality.

Impact

The bill significantly alters the balance of power between the legislature and the executive branch, particularly concerning the oversight of the Attorney General. By allowing the legislature to direct inquiries, it could lead to increased legislative involvement in law enforcement matters and public safety investigations. This could also affect how investigations are funded and reported, as the financial oversight is limited to the legislature and the Attorney General, potentially reducing transparency.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill A01312 appears to be mixed, with some legislators supporting the increased oversight and others expressing concerns about the potential for political misuse of the Attorney General's powers. There have been no recorded votes or committee discussions available to gauge the full extent of support or opposition, but the nature of the bill suggests it may provoke debate regarding the separation of powers.

Contention

Notable points of contention include concerns about the potential for political interference in investigations directed by the legislature. Critics argue that this could undermine the independence of the Attorney General's office and lead to investigations being used as political tools. Supporters, however, contend that legislative oversight is necessary to ensure accountability and transparency in matters of public safety.

Companion Bills

NY S00412

Same As Grants the legislature the authority to direct the attorney-general by concurrent resolution to inquire into matters concerning the public peace, public safety and public justice.

Previously Filed As

NY S00053

Grants the legislature the authority to direct the attorney-general by concurrent resolution to inquire into matters concerning the public peace, public safety and public justice.

NY A01688

Grants the legislature the authority to direct the attorney-general by concurrent resolution to inquire into matters concerning the public peace, public safety and public justice.

NY S00412

Grants the legislature the authority to direct the attorney-general by concurrent resolution to inquire into matters concerning the public peace, public safety and public justice.

NY HB1387

To Require Members Of The Board Of Directors Of A Public Water Authority To Publish Their Contact Information Under The Water Authority Act.

NY SB160

Granting the attorney general concurrent authority to prosecute any crimes related to schools.

NY A10110

Establishes a personal right of publicity; provides for the removal of unconsented material from websites by the attorney general.

NY HB1468

PRIVACY-PUBLIC SAFETY/JUSTICE

NY HB1768

PUBLIC SAFETY&JUSTICE PRIVACY

NY HB121

Relating to measures for ensuring public school safety, including the commissioning of peace officers by the Texas Education Agency, the composition of the board of directors of the Texas School Safety Center, and public school safety and security requirements and resources.

NY SB1262

Relating to measures for ensuring public school safety, including the commissioning of peace officers by the Texas Education Agency, the composition of the board of directors of the Texas School Safety Center, and public school safety and security requirements and resources.

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HI HR66

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AZ HB2099

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CA SB1399

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NJ S3231

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WY HB0060

AN ACT relating to the administration of government; providing for the election of the attorney general; designating the attorney general as a state elected official; setting the attorney general's term of office; setting the attorney general's salary; providing for filling a vacancy in the position; repealing and modifying provisions for interim appointment; providing for the application of the Ethics and Disclosure Act and other laws to the office of the attorney general and attorney general as a state elected official; amending certain provisions regarding actions the attorney general takes requiring approval of or pursuant to the direction of the governor; prescribing additional duties of the attorney general; making conforming amendments; repealing an obsolete provision; and providing for effective dates.