New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A09017

Introduced
9/5/25  
Refer
9/5/25  
Refer
11/5/25  
Refer
1/7/26  

Caption

Requires vacancies in the office of lieutenant-governor to be filled within certain timeframes and procedures.

Impact

The impact of A09017 on state law is significant as it establishes a clear timeline and procedure for the governor's nominations. By enforcing these timeframes, the bill seeks to eliminate ambiguity associated with vacancy appointments, thereby promoting a more efficient governance system. Additionally, the procedure for what happens if the legislature rejects a nomination is detailed; the governor is given the opportunity to propose another candidate within thirty days of rejection, thus maintaining the continuity of leadership.

Summary

Bill A09017 seeks to amend Article 4 of the New York Constitution regarding the process of filling vacancies in the office of lieutenant-governor. The proposed changes dictate that the governor must nominate a candidate within sixty days of the vacancy's creation, and that nominee must then be confirmed by a majority vote in both houses of the legislature within another sixty days. This proposal aims to streamline the process for filling such vacancies and to ensure there is a prompt response to changes in the state's executive leadership.

Contention

Notable points of contention may revolve around the balance of power between the executive and legislative branches. Critics may argue that imposing strict timelines could pressure the governor into making hasty nominations, potentially compromising the selection process's thoroughness. Furthermore, if the legislature is unable to act within the stipulated timelines, provisions in the bill allow for legislative intervention to fill the vacancy, which could be seen as undermining the governor's authority.

Additional-notes

The bill addresses procedural clarity and is likely to be subject to debate regarding the merit of such amendments in enhancing executive effectiveness against perceived risks of political maneuvering during appointments.

Companion Bills

NY S07814

Same As Requires vacancies in the office of lieutenant-governor to be filled within certain timeframes and procedures.

Previously Filed As

NY S07814

Requires vacancies in the office of lieutenant-governor to be filled within certain timeframes and procedures.

NY HB471

Lieutenant Governor, vacancy in office, require the office be filled by election in certain circumstances

NY S08144

Establishes term limits for the governor and lieutenant-governor of three terms in such office.

NY SB271

Lieutenant Governor, vacancy in office, require the office be filled by election in certain circumstances, constitutional amendment

NY A05785

Establishes term limits for the governor and lieutenant-governor of three terms in such office.

NY A09018

Relates to the line of succession for the governor and lieutenant-governor in cases where they are impeached or unable to perform the duties of the office.

NY S07816

Relates to the line of succession for the governor and lieutenant-governor in cases where they are impeached or unable to perform the duties of the office.

NY HB1100

Requirements for Filling Certain Vacancies in Offices

NY H0401

Security for Nominees and Officers-elect to the Offices of Governor and Lieutenant Governor

NY S07815

Relates to declaring inabilities of the governor, lieutenant-governor and acting governor; creates the committee on gubernatorial inability.

Similar Bills

NH CACR1

Relating to the governor. Providing that there be a lieutenant governor who shall assume the duties of the governor if the governor is incapacitated.

CT HB07223

An Act Concerning The Order Of Gubernatorial Succession Under Certain Permanent And Temporary Circumstances.

SC H5018

Agency Head Salary Commission, Governor and Lt. Governor

CA AB1835

State of emergency: Governor’s powers and termination.

CT HB05219

An Act Concerning The Order Of Gubernatorial Succession Under Certain Permanent And Temporary Circumstances.

NY S07816

Relates to the line of succession for the governor and lieutenant-governor in cases where they are impeached or unable to perform the duties of the office.

NY A09018

Relates to the line of succession for the governor and lieutenant-governor in cases where they are impeached or unable to perform the duties of the office.

PA SB460

Further providing for incapacity of the Governor and Lieutenant Governor.