Bill > A10054

This bill eliminates the practice of withholding state aid to cities as a way to force them to comply with court facility standards, recognizing that cities have a responsibility to provide safe and functional courts but that the current enforcement method can negatively impact local finances and services. Instead, it establishes a formal appeal process for any directives or plans issued by the chief administrator of the courts regarding court facility improvements. If a city disagrees with such a directive, they can appeal to an independent "court facilities review panel," which will consist of representatives from the Division of the Budget, the State Comptroller, the chief administrator of the courts, and appointees with expertise in municipal finance and construction. This panel will review the proposed plans for their necessity, reasonableness, feasibility, and proportionality, considering factors like alternative solutions and the impact on municipal finances. Following the panel's decision, the city and the court administration will enter into a written compliance plan, and enforcement will be through administrative measures, not by withholding state aid.

Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A10054