Bill > S06789

This bill proposes a constitutional amendment that establishes a new process for filling vacancies in the office of lieutenant-governor and creates a clear line of succession for the governor's office. Specifically, if the lieutenant-governor position becomes vacant due to death, resignation, removal, or ascension to governor, the governor can appoint a replacement within 45 days, who must then be confirmed by majority votes in both the state senate and assembly within 45 days of the appointment. If the first nominee is not approved, the governor must submit a new nomination within 30 days, which will again require confirmation. The bill also establishes a detailed succession plan for acting governor, specifying that if the speaker of the assembly is unable to serve, the comptroller would become acting governor, followed by the attorney general, and then the secretary of state, in that order. This ensures continuity of leadership in the state government during potential leadership transitions or unexpected vacancies. The proposed amendment would be referred to the first legislative session after the next general election and would be published for three months prior to that election, as required by the state constitution.

Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S6789