Bill > A09018

This bill proposes amendments to the New York State Constitution's line of succession for the governor and lieutenant governor, clarifying procedures in cases of impeachment, death, resignation, or inability to serve. The bill updates language to be more gender-neutral and expands the rules for determining leadership during various scenarios of gubernatorial vacancy. It specifies that if the governor is impeached or unable to discharge duties, the lieutenant governor will act as governor until the original governor is acquitted or becomes able to serve. The bill also establishes that if both the governor and lieutenant governor are unavailable, the temporary president of the senate will act as governor, and if that position is also vacant, the speaker of the assembly will assume the role. Additionally, the legislature is authorized to create a broader line of succession that can include statewide elected officials, legislature members, or confirmed executive department heads. The bill includes provisions requiring any acting governor to take an oath and fully discharge the powers of the office, and allows for an acting governor to decline the role if unable to serve. The proposed constitutional amendment will be referred to the first regular legislative session after the next general election and must be published for three months prior to that election.

Government Affairs, Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A9018