Bill > A02399

This bill modifies existing laws regarding local states of emergency and local board of health orders by introducing new approval requirements for local government bodies. Specifically, the bill requires that any extension of a local state of emergency proclaimed by a chief executive must be approved by the corresponding local governing body (such as a county board of supervisors, city council, or town board). Similarly, any orders issued by a local board of health will now be limited to a five-day initial period, with subsequent extensions also requiring approval from the local governing body. This means that local chief executives and health boards can no longer unilaterally extend emergency declarations or orders indefinitely, but must seek periodic approval from elected representatives. The changes aim to increase democratic oversight and prevent potential overreach during emergencies by ensuring that prolonged emergency measures receive ongoing consent from local legislative bodies. The bill takes effect immediately upon enactment.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A2399