Bill > S01259

This bill modifies existing laws to allow witnesses to provide testimony before legislative committees via videoconferencing under specific circumstances. The bill establishes that when a witness requests a reasonable accommodation, a legislative committee may permit videoconference testimony if the witness demonstrates an inability to appear in person due to factors such as disability, travel costs, severe weather conditions, or other justifiable reasons deemed acceptable by the committee. Additionally, the bill updates public officers law to explicitly state that witness testimony in legislative committee meetings can be conducted through videoconference. The changes aim to increase accessibility and flexibility for witnesses who may find it challenging to physically attend committee hearings, ensuring that important testimony can still be heard while providing reasonable accommodations. The modifications apply to committees in either house of the state legislature or joint committees, and the act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S1259