Bill > S00932

This bill amends the New York election law to prohibit candidates, public officials, party officials, and their immediate family members or domestic partners from using campaign funds to pay attorney's fees or legal costs associated with civil or criminal actions, investigations, or prosecutions alleging violations of state or federal law. The only exception to this prohibition is for legal expenses directly related to civil actions under Article 16 of the election law. The bill will take effect 60 days after becoming law, and the state board of elections is required to notify all registered campaign committees about these new provisions within 30 days of the law's enactment. The purpose of this legislation appears to be preventing campaign funds from being used to defend against potential legal challenges or misconduct, thereby ensuring that campaign contributions are used for their intended political purposes and not as a legal defense fund.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S932