Bill > S07828

This bill proposes constitutional amendments to the state's budgeting process, focusing on how the governor submits appropriation bills and what can be included in them. Specifically, the bill requires that the governor submit two separate types of bills: (a) an appropriation bill containing proposed spending allocations that must be consistent with existing state law, and (b) a separate nonappropriation bill for any recommended legislation. The amendments also place new restrictions on appropriation bills, mandating that they: contain only appropriation items, include clear descriptions of each expenditure, identify the statutory basis for spending where possible, avoid including programmatic conditions or rules, and refrain from modifying existing laws within the appropriation bill itself. If such modifications are desired, they must be proposed in separate nonappropriation legislation. The proposed changes aim to increase transparency and clarity in the state's budgeting process by ensuring that appropriation bills are focused strictly on financial allocations and that any policy changes or program details are handled through distinct legislative vehicles. The amendment would be referred to the first regular legislative session after the next general election and must be published for three months prior to that election, as required by the state constitution.

Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S7828