New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S03484

Introduced
1/27/25  
Refer
1/27/25  
Refer
2/5/25  
Refer
1/7/26  

Caption

Proposes a constitutional amendment to divide the state into three autonomous regions; the New Amsterdam Region, the New York Region and the Montauk Region; provides regional governors and regional legislators; provides only for a state sales tax; divides various departments and agencies; provides for separate court systems and prison systems.

Summary

Bill S03484 proposes a significant constitutional amendment to restructure the governance of New York State by dividing it into three autonomous regions: the New Amsterdam Region, the New York Region, and the Montauk Region. Each region would have its own legislative body, consisting of a Regional Senate and Assembly, and a Regional governor. The bill outlines the specific counties that comprise each region and establishes the framework for regional governance, including the legislative process, budgetary requirements, and the powers of regional officials. Additionally, the bill proposes amendments to various articles of the state constitution, including provisions related to education, local governance, and the formation of new towns, while repealing certain existing articles and sections that conflict with the new structure.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would fundamentally alter the governance structure of New York State, creating three distinct regions with their own legislative and executive branches. This would lead to the decentralization of power from the state level to the regional level, allowing regions to enact laws and manage budgets independently of the state government. The bill also limits the types of laws that the state legislature can enact, effectively reducing its authority. Furthermore, it establishes a new framework for local governance, including the ability for landowners to create new towns and mandates for budget approval by voters in certain circumstances.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill S03484 appears to be mixed, with some proponents arguing that regional governance would allow for more localized decision-making and better representation of diverse communities within the state. However, there are concerns about the potential for increased bureaucracy and the challenges of implementing such a significant restructuring of government. The lack of voting history and committee discussions makes it difficult to gauge the overall support or opposition among legislators and constituents.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the feasibility of dividing the state into three regions and the implications for governance, public services, and funding. Critics may argue that such a division could lead to disparities in resources and representation, particularly for smaller or less populated regions. Additionally, the bill's provisions regarding budgetary control and the limitations placed on the state legislature may raise concerns about the balance of power and the ability to address statewide issues effectively.

Companion Bills

NY A03778

Same As Proposes a constitutional amendment to divide the state into three autonomous regions; the New Amsterdam Region, the New York Region and the Montauk Region; provides regional governors and regional legislators; provides only for a state sales tax; divides various departments and agencies; provides for separate court systems and prison systems.

Previously Filed As

NY S03093

Proposes a constitutional amendment to divide the state into three autonomous regions; the New Amsterdam Region, the New York Region and the Montauk Region; provides regional governors and regional legislators; provides only for a state sales tax; divides various departments and agencies; provides for separate court systems and prison systems.

NY A03778

Proposes a constitutional amendment to divide the state into three autonomous regions; the New Amsterdam Region, the New York Region and the Montauk Region; provides regional governors and regional legislators; provides only for a state sales tax; divides various departments and agencies; provides for separate court systems and prison systems.

NY HF1790

Regional library systems funding provided, and money appropriated.

NY HB1254

Provides relative to the New Orleans Regional Business Park

NY HB484

Provides relative to the New Orleans Regional Business Park

NY AB1275

Regional housing needs: regional transportation plan.

NY HB588

Provides relative to the Regional Transit Authority

NY S1456

Relative to voting on regional planning board proposed regional agreements

NY S3005

Relative to voting on regional planning board proposed regional agreements

NY H538

Regarding school regionalization

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