New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S00412

Introduced
1/8/25  
Refer
1/8/25  

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 S00412 proposes an amendment to the executive law that grants the New York State Legislature the authority to direct the Attorney General to conduct inquiries into matters related to public peace, safety, and justice. This amendment allows the Attorney General, with the Legislature's direction, to appoint deputies and other personnel necessary for such inquiries, determine their duties, and set their compensation, all while ensuring that the process remains free from interference by the Governor or other state officials. The bill aims to enhance legislative oversight of public inquiries and investigations.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would significantly alter the current balance of power between the executive and legislative branches in New York. It would empower the Legislature to initiate inquiries that could lead to investigations into public safety and justice issues without the Governor's prior approval. This change could lead to increased legislative involvement in oversight functions and may impact how investigations are conducted in the state, potentially increasing accountability and transparency in government operations.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill S00412 appears to be mixed. Supporters argue that it enhances legislative oversight and accountability, while critics express concerns about potential overreach and the implications of legislative interference in the Attorney General's independent investigations. There has been no recorded voting history or committee discussions available to provide further insight into the prevailing opinions among legislators.

Contention

Notable points of contention include concerns from some legislators about the potential for political motivations influencing inquiries directed by the Legislature. Critics argue that this could undermine the independence of the Attorney General's office and lead to partisan investigations. Supporters counter that increased legislative oversight is necessary for accountability and transparency in government actions.

Companion Bills

NY A01312

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 A01312

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.

Similar Bills

NJ SCR59

Proposes constitutional amendment to provide for election of Attorney General.

NJ ACR94

Proposes constitutional amendment to provide for election of Attorney General.

HI HCR72

Requesting The Legislative Reference Bureau To Conduct A Comprehensive Study On The Feasibility And Implications Of Electing The State's Attorney General.

HI HR66

Requesting The Legislative Reference Bureau To Conduct A Comprehensive Study On The Feasibility And Implications Of Electing The State's Attorney General.

AZ HB2099

Governor; attorney general; duties; immigration

CA SB1399

Locked detention facilities: civil immigration: reviews.

NJ S3231

Requires adoption of joint resolution before Attorney General files amicus brief in any state or federal court in which State is not party.

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.