New York Assembly Bill A09569

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/14/26
• Refer: 1/14/26

Caption

Removes public officials for executing warrants from the international criminal court.

Summary

This bill would amend the New York Public Officers Law to create a new ground for removal from public office. Under the proposal, any person holding public office could be removed if they execute an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC) in a manner that violates federal law. The removal authority would apply until the United States ratifies any treaty necessary to recognize the ICC’s jurisdiction and authority. In practical terms, the bill is aimed at discouraging state or local officials from cooperating with or carrying out ICC warrants unless and until U.S. law changes to permit that conduct. The measure takes effect immediately and would add a new section to the Public Officers Law governing misconduct and removal of public officials.

Impact

The bill would add a new statutory basis in the Public Officers Law for removing public officials who execute ICC arrest warrants in violation of federal law. It would affect state and local officeholders, potentially including law enforcement or other officials involved in arrest or detention actions tied to international criminal proceedings. The proposal does not change federal law, but it conditions state-level officeholding on compliance with existing federal restrictions regarding ICC warrant enforcement.

Sentiment

There is limited recorded legislative discussion or voting history available for this bill, so no formal committee or floor sentiment can be measured from transcripts or votes. Based on the bill text and caption, the measure appears to reflect a restrictive stance toward cooperation with the International Criminal Court and a preference for aligning state conduct with federal law. The absence of recorded debate makes it difficult to identify broader support or opposition within the Legislature.

Contention

The main point of contention is likely to be whether New York should impose penalties on public officials for assisting in the execution of ICC warrants, especially in situations involving international accountability or human rights enforcement. Supporters would likely emphasize federal supremacy and the need to avoid unauthorized cooperation with an international tribunal, while opponents may argue the bill is unnecessary, symbolic, or could interfere with law enforcement discretion and international justice efforts. Another possible dispute is the bill’s dependence on future U.S. ratification of a treaty recognizing the ICC, which could leave the rule in place indefinitely.