Bill > A00534

This bill amends the New York Public Officers Law to prohibit public bodies from conducting executive sessions (closed-door meetings) when discussing the appointment of an elected member or officer to fill a vacancy in that public body. Specifically, the bill requires that all aspects of the vacancy appointment process, including interviews of prospective candidates and related discussions, must be conducted in a public meeting that is open to the general public. This means that when a public body needs to fill a vacancy caused by death, resignation, removal from office, or refusal to serve, they cannot retreat to a private executive session to conduct these proceedings. The purpose of the bill appears to be increasing transparency in local government by ensuring that the selection process for filling elected positions is conducted in full view of the public. The bill takes effect immediately upon enactment.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A534