Bill > S04165

This bill increases the state code enforcement powers of the secretary of state by establishing a new State Code Enforcement Ombudsperson Office within the Department of State. The bill creates a full-time ombudsperson position, appointed by the secretary of state, who will have broad powers to investigate and resolve complaints related to local code enforcement programs. The ombudsperson can visit localities without prior notice, inspect code enforcement programs, and has the authority to recommend policies, identify systemic issues, and advise local governments on meeting minimum code enforcement standards. Key responsibilities include investigating complaints, presenting significant issues to the secretary of state, monitoring policy implementation, and submitting an annual public report to state leadership detailing the office's activities, complaint analyses, and recommendations for legislative improvements. The ombudsperson will be required to address potential conflicts of interest and can appoint assistant ombudspeople who are either attorneys or certified code enforcement officials. The bill also allows the secretary to place an oversight official in local governments for up to one year to monitor and ensure compliance with uniform code standards, with local government staff required to comply with the official's directives. The new office is designed to provide enhanced state-level oversight and support for local code enforcement efforts.

Budget and Finance, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S4165