Bill > A01780

This bill proposes a constitutional amendment to modify the provisions regarding public pension and retirement systems, specifically addressing the protection and potential reduction of pension benefits. The amendment clarifies that accrued benefits in any state or local government pension system are a contractual relationship that cannot be diminished, while introducing an important exception for public officers convicted of felonies directly related to their official duties. Under the proposed amendment, a court may reduce or revoke a pension after a hearing, considering factors such as the severity of the crime and potential hardship to dependents. The bill defines "public officer" comprehensively, including elected officials, gubernatorial appointees, government department heads, judges, and certain policymaking employees. The amendment would only apply to crimes committed after the date of voter approval, and it requires the legislature to enact implementing legislation that considers the interests of justice. The bill also mandates that the proposed constitutional amendment be referred to the next legislative session after a general election and published for three months prior to that election, following standard constitutional procedures for constitutional amendments.

Government Affairs, Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A1780