New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A04946

Introduced
2/10/25  
Refer
2/10/25  
Refer
3/6/25  
Refer
1/7/26  

Caption

Provides for the filling of vacancies in the office of lieutenant-governor by appointment of the governor subject to confirmation by majority vote in the senate and majority vote in the assembly.

Summary

Bill A04946 proposes an amendment to the New York State Constitution regarding the process for filling vacancies in the office of lieutenant-governor. Specifically, it stipulates that in the event of a vacancy due to death, resignation, removal from office, or ascension to governor, the governor shall appoint a new lieutenant-governor within thirty days. This appointment would then require confirmation by a majority vote in both the state senate and assembly, also to be conducted within thirty days of the appointment.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would alter the current constitutional provisions regarding the succession of the lieutenant-governor, which currently does not specify a clear process for filling such vacancies. The proposed amendment would ensure a more structured and timely method for appointing a new lieutenant-governor, thereby enhancing governmental stability and continuity in leadership.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill A04946 appears to be generally supportive, as it aims to clarify and streamline the process for filling a critical executive position. However, there may be some concerns regarding the implications of allowing the governor to make an appointment that requires legislative confirmation, which could lead to political maneuvering.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise around the balance of power between the executive and legislative branches, particularly regarding the governor's authority to appoint a lieutenant-governor. Some legislators may argue that this process could lead to potential abuses of power or political favoritism, while others may support the efficiency and clarity it brings to the succession process.

Companion Bills

NY S01590

Same As Provides for the filling of vacancies in the office of lieutenant-governor by appointment of the governor subject to confirmation by majority vote in the senate and majority vote in the assembly.

Previously Filed As

NY S01598

Provides for the filling of vacancies in the office of lieutenant-governor by appointment of the governor subject to confirmation by majority vote in the senate and majority vote in the assembly.

NY A01534

Provides for the filling of vacancies in the office of lieutenant-governor by appointment of the governor subject to confirmation by majority vote in the senate and majority vote in the assembly.

NY S01590

Provides for the filling of vacancies in the office of lieutenant-governor by appointment of the governor subject to confirmation by majority vote in the senate and majority vote in the assembly.

NY A05826

Provides for the filling of vacancies in the office of lieutenant-governor by appointment of the governor subject to confirmation by majority vote in the senate and majority vote in the assembly; provides for an extended order of succession for the filling of a vacancy in the office of the governor.

NY S06789

Provides for the filling of vacancies in the office of lieutenant-governor by appointment of the governor subject to confirmation by majority vote in the senate and majority vote in the assembly; provides for an extended order of succession for the filling of a vacancy in the office of the governor.

NY A06256

Requires the filling of vacancies in the office of lieutenant-governor be done subject to confirmation by a two-thirds vote in the senate and a two-thirds vote in the assembly.

NY SB1108

In district election officers, further providing for district election boards and election and for qualifications of election officers, repealing provisions relating to tie votes for judge and inspector and further providing for vacancies in election boards, appointment, judge and majority inspector to be members of majority party and minority inspector to be member of minority party.

NY A09017

Requires vacancies in the office of lieutenant-governor to be filled within certain timeframes and procedures.

NY S07814

Requires vacancies in the office of lieutenant-governor to be filled within certain timeframes and procedures.

NY A10484

Relates to the membership of the board of trustees of the state university of New York; reduces the number of trustees appointed by the governor from fifteen to ten; adds one trustee appointment by the speaker of the assembly, one by the temporary president of the senate, one by a majority vote of SUNY and CUNY staff, and two by a majority vote of SUNY alumni.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.