New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S05592

Introduced
2/25/25  
Refer
2/25/25  
Refer
3/18/25  
Refer
1/7/26  

Caption

Authorizes the governor to fill vacancy in the office of lieutenant-governor on confirmation of both houses of the legislature; allows the governor to leave the state without transmitting power to lieutenant-governor; establishes the process for lieutenant-governor to act as governor during incapacitation of the governor.

Summary

Bill S05592 proposes amendments to sections 5 and 6 of article 4 of the New York State Constitution, focusing on the roles and responsibilities of the lieutenant-governor, particularly in cases of vacancy or incapacity of the governor. It allows the lieutenant-governor to act as governor under specific conditions, including when the governor is unable to perform their duties. The bill also clarifies the process for filling a vacancy in the office of the lieutenant-governor, enabling the governor to appoint a successor with legislative confirmation.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would modify the existing constitutional provisions regarding the succession of power in New York State. It would streamline the process for the lieutenant-governor to assume the governor's duties during periods of incapacity and establish a clear procedure for filling vacancies in the lieutenant-governor's office. This could potentially lead to more stable governance during transitional periods.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill S05592 appears to be cautiously supportive, as it addresses important governance issues related to succession and vacancy. However, there may be concerns regarding the implications of allowing the governor to leave the state without transmitting power, which could lead to debates about accountability and continuity in leadership.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the implications of allowing the governor to remain out of state without formally transferring power to the lieutenant-governor. Critics may argue that this could create a power vacuum or undermine the authority of the lieutenant-governor. Supporters, however, may contend that it provides necessary flexibility in governance.

Companion Bills

NY A06672

Same As Authorizes the governor to fill vacancy in the office of lieutenant-governor on confirmation of both houses of the legislature; allows the governor to leave the state without transmitting power to lieutenant-governor; establishes the process for lieutenant-governor to act as governor during incapacitation of the governor.

Previously Filed As

NY S02687

Authorizes the governor to fill vacancy in the office of lieutenant-governor on confirmation of both houses of the legislature; allows the governor to leave the state without transmitting power to lieutenant-governor; establishes the process for lieutenant-governor to act as governor during incapacitation of the governor.

NY A06672

Authorizes the governor to fill vacancy in the office of lieutenant-governor on confirmation of both houses of the legislature; allows the governor to leave the state without transmitting power to lieutenant-governor; establishes the process for lieutenant-governor to act as governor during incapacitation of the governor.

NY SB460

Further providing for incapacity of the Governor and Lieutenant Governor.

NY CACR1

Relating to the governor. Providing that there be a lieutenant governor who shall assume the duties of the governor if the governor is incapacitated.

NY S07814

Requires vacancies in the office of lieutenant-governor to be filled within certain timeframes and procedures.

NY A09017

Requires vacancies in the office of lieutenant-governor to be filled within certain timeframes and procedures.

NY SF3261

Constitutional amendment allowing a governor to select a lieutenant governor to fill a vacancy

NY A05785

Establishes term limits for the governor and lieutenant-governor of three terms in such office.

NY S08144

Establishes term limits for the governor and lieutenant-governor of three terms in such office.

NY H0401

Security for Nominees and Officers-elect to the Offices of Governor and Lieutenant Governor

Similar Bills

PA SB460

Further providing for incapacity of the Governor and Lieutenant Governor.

SC S0166

Emergency Order Balance of Powers Act

NY S07815

Relates to declaring inabilities of the governor, lieutenant-governor and acting governor; creates the committee on gubernatorial inability.

NY A09020

Relates to declaring inabilities of the governor, lieutenant-governor and acting governor; creates the committee on gubernatorial inability.

IN SJR0017

State comptroller.

AZ HB2630

Governor nominations; agency position; eligibility

UT HJR003

Proposal to Amend Utah Constitution - Term of Office

CA AB1477

Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development: California Competes Grant Program.