Bill > A07255

This bill proposes a constitutional amendment establishing a comprehensive ethical framework for New York state government and its political subdivisions. The amendment would formally recognize public office as a public trust and mandate that each branch of government and political subdivision create and enforce a code of ethics applicable to appointed and elected officials who have policy influence. These codes must be administered by independent ethics commissions and include specific provisions covering areas such as gifts, confidential information, use of position, government contracts, post-employment conduct, financial disclosure, conflicts of interest, and lobbyist regulations. The bill requires all elected officers, candidates for elected office, and certain appointed officials to make public financial disclosures, which must include detailed information like income sources, business ownerships, property holdings, debts, and representations before government agencies. Other officials with significant discretionary or fiscal powers would be required to submit confidential financial disclosures. The core purpose of this amendment is to ensure transparency, maintain public trust, and establish clear ethical standards for government officials at all levels.

Government Affairs, Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A7255