Bill > A00298

This bill amends the Public Officers Law to prohibit state reimbursement of legal expenses if those expenses are paid by campaign or political committees, or legal defense funds. Specifically, the bill prevents state employees from receiving reimbursement for attorneys' fees and litigation expenses if a campaign committee, political committee, or legal defense fund has paid any portion of those expenses. The legislation requires employees to certify to both the Attorney General and Comptroller that no funds remain in any legal defense fund established on their behalf and that no reimbursement will be used to repay such committees or funds. The bill applies to both criminal proceedings and civil actions arising from an employee's official duties, ensuring that state funds are not indirectly funneled back to political or campaign organizations through legal expense reimbursements. The changes aim to create greater transparency and prevent potential misuse of state resources for political purposes. The bill takes effect immediately and will apply to both pending claims not yet paid by the state and any new claims submitted after its effective date.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A298