Bill > A09196

This bill proposes significant changes to the structure and compensation of state legislators, fundamentally redefining their role as part-time, volunteer public servants. It eliminates legislative salaries, establishing that members of the legislature will receive no compensation from the state and are to be considered volunteers rather than state employees. Legislators would be permitted to maintain regular employment outside of their legislative duties and would be eligible for limited reimbursement: travel expenses for going to and returning from legislative sessions (not more than once per week), and a per diem allowance (limited to 30 days per calendar year) as determined by the state comptroller. The bill also dramatically restricts legislative sessions, mandating that the legislature will only convene on Saturdays and Sundays during January and February, beginning on the first Saturday after the first Thursday in January. Additionally, the bill modifies budget submission and approval processes, such as requiring the governor to submit budget bills by the second Saturday following the annual legislative meeting and mandating that appropriation bills be passed by both houses on or before the last Sunday of February. These constitutional amendments aim to transform the legislature into a more part-time, cost-effective governing body with reduced operational scope and financial burden.

Government Affairs, Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A9196