Prohibits the passage of bills by the legislature between the hours of midnight and eight o'clock a.m. unless 2/3 of the legislature is present; requires two-thirds approval for messages of necessity.
Summary
Bill S00233 proposes an amendment to section 14 of article 3 of the New York State Constitution. The amendment aims to prohibit the passage of bills between the hours of midnight and eight o'clock a.m. unless two-thirds of the members of the legislature are present. Additionally, it requires two-thirds approval for messages of necessity, which are requests for immediate legislative action without the standard waiting period. This change is intended to enhance transparency and ensure that legislative decisions are made during regular hours when more members are likely to be present and engaged.
Impact
If enacted, this bill would significantly alter the legislative process in New York State by instituting stricter rules on when bills can be passed. It would prevent the passage of legislation during late-night hours, which advocates argue could lead to more informed decision-making. The requirement for two-thirds approval for messages of necessity would also limit the executive's ability to expedite legislation, thereby increasing legislative scrutiny and potentially slowing down the legislative process in urgent situations.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding Bill S00233 appears to be mixed. Supporters argue that the bill promotes transparency and accountability in the legislative process, while critics express concerns that it may hinder the ability of the legislature to respond quickly to urgent matters. The lack of recorded votes or committee discussions suggests that the bill may still be in the early stages of consideration, and further debate is likely as it progresses.
Contention
Notable points of contention include the balance between ensuring legislative accountability and the need for flexibility in urgent situations. Supporters of the bill, primarily from the sponsoring senators, emphasize the importance of having a fully present legislature during voting hours. Conversely, opponents may argue that the restrictions could impede timely legislative responses to pressing issues, especially in times of crisis. The debate may also touch on the implications of limiting the governor's ability to call for immediate votes.
Same As
Prohibits the passage of bills by the legislature between the hours of midnight and eight o'clock a.m. unless 2/3 of the legislature is present; requires two-thirds approval for messages of necessity.
Prohibits the passage of bills by the legislature between the hours of midnight and eight o'clock a.m. unless 2/3 of the legislature is present; requires two-thirds approval for messages of necessity.
Prohibits the passage of bills by the legislature between the hours of midnight and eight o'clock a.m. unless 2/3 of the legislature is present; requires two-thirds approval for messages of necessity.
Provides that no bill which increases, extends, imposes or revives any tax, fee, assessment, surcharge or any other such levy or collection, be passed or become a law, except by the assent of two-thirds of the members elected to each branch of the legislature voting separately; makes an exception for any bill which results from the passage of a home rule message.
Proposing a constitutional amendment changing the vote requirement in the legislature to approve a proposed constitutional amendment for submission to the voters of this state to two-thirds of the members present in each chamber of the legislature.
Proposes constitutional amendment to require two-thirds majority vote by Legislature for bills proposing a new or increased State tax, fee, surcharge or civil penalty.
Prohibiting the use of funds provided by the United States government for the conduct of elections and election-related activities unless approved by the legislature.
A resolution to direct the Clerk of the House of Representatives to only present to the Governor enrolled House bills finally passed by both houses of the One Hundred Third Legislature.