Bill > A01511

This bill creates a new fourteenth judicial district consisting solely of Erie County, which will be separated from the existing eighth judicial district. The legislation makes several key changes to New York's judicial structure: it modifies the state's judicial department divisions to include the new fourteenth district, adjusts the number of judges in the eighth and fourteenth districts, and establishes a Supreme Court library in Erie County. The bill ensures that current Supreme Court justices serving in Erie County will continue in their roles in the new fourteenth judicial district, while those in other counties previously part of the eighth district will remain in the eighth judicial district. Additionally, the bill requires Erie County to establish and maintain a court library to serve the new judicial district, and provides detailed provisions for the library's governance, including how trustees will manage the library, acquire resources, and ensure its availability to various county officials and judges. The changes are set to take effect on January 1, 2026, with the intent of creating a distinct judicial district for Erie County while maintaining continuity for existing court personnel and resources.

Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A1511