New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A05826

Introduced
2/20/25  
Refer
2/20/25  
Refer
3/18/25  
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; provides for an extended order of succession for the filling of a vacancy in the office of the governor.

Summary

Bill A05826 proposes an amendment to the New York State Constitution regarding the process for filling vacancies in the offices of lieutenant-governor and governor. It stipulates that if a vacancy occurs in the office of lieutenant-governor due to death, resignation, removal, or ascension to governor, the governor must appoint a successor within 45 days, subject to confirmation by a majority vote in both the Senate and Assembly. If the appointee is not confirmed, the governor has 30 days to nominate a new candidate, who must also be confirmed by the legislature. The bill also establishes a clear order of succession for acting as governor in the event of vacancies in the offices of the speaker of the assembly, comptroller, attorney general, and secretary of state.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would amend the New York State Constitution to provide a more structured and timely process for filling vacancies in the lieutenant-governor's office, thereby ensuring continuity in governance. It would also clarify the order of succession for acting governors, potentially affecting how the state government operates during transitional periods. This change could lead to increased accountability and transparency in the appointment process, as legislative confirmation would be required for any appointments made by the governor.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill A05826 appears to be generally supportive, as it aims to enhance governance and ensure that vacancies are filled promptly. However, there may be concerns regarding the implications of legislative confirmation on the governor's ability to appoint candidates quickly, which could lead to debates about the balance of power between the executive and legislative branches.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise around the proposed requirement for legislative confirmation of the lieutenant-governor appointee, as some lawmakers may feel this could undermine the governor's authority. Additionally, there may be differing opinions on the appropriateness of the established order of succession, particularly regarding who should act as governor in the absence of the lieutenant-governor.

Companion Bills

NY S06789

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; provides for an extended order of succession for the filling of a vacancy in the office of the governor.

Previously Filed As

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 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 A04946

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 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 SB847

In vacancies in office, further providing for filling vacancies in elective borough offices.

NY SB862

In vacancies in office, further providing for filling vacancies in elective borough offices.

NY HB1195

In vacancies in office, further providing for filling vacancies in elective borough offices.

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.

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CA AB1835

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CT HB05219

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CT HB07223

An Act Concerning The Order Of Gubernatorial Succession Under Certain Permanent And Temporary Circumstances.

NY S07816

Relates to the line of succession for the governor and lieutenant-governor in cases where they are impeached or unable to perform the duties of the office.

NY A09018

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