Bill > S00407

This bill expands the authority of the New York State Attorney General to investigate and prosecute violations of the Public Officers Law, a set of ethical guidelines governing the conduct of public officials. Specifically, the bill adds a new provision to the Executive Law that allows the Attorney General to independently investigate alleged violations of the Public Officers Law and take legal action against those believed to have committed such violations. Importantly, this new authority does not interfere with the existing powers of district attorneys to investigate and prosecute similar crimes. The bill also allows the Attorney General to request cooperation and assistance from state agencies, departments, and political subdivisions when conducting these investigations. Additionally, the bill updates language throughout the existing law to use gender-neutral terminology, replacing gendered pronouns like "his" with more inclusive phrases like "the attorney-general's". The changes aim to provide the Attorney General with more robust tools to ensure ethical conduct among public officials and to promote transparency and accountability in government. The bill will take effect immediately upon becoming law.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S407