New York Assembly Bill A10941

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/14/26
• Refer: 4/14/26

Caption

Authorizes John Raftery to take the competitive civil service exam for the position of police officer and be placed on the eligible civil service list for employment as a full-time police officer for the town of Shawangunk.

Impact

If enacted, A10941 will impact state civil service laws by providing a specific exception for John Raftery, thus enabling his advancement within the law enforcement hierarchy. This decision could set a precedent for other similar cases where long-standing part-time officers might seek full-time employment without adhering strictly to age restrictions or other barriers outlined by existing civil service provisions. Supporters of the bill argue that it will enhance the local police force by allowing experienced officers to continue their careers, thereby improving public safety.

Summary

Bill A10941 is a legislative measure aimed at allowing John Raftery, a part-time police officer with the town of Shawangunk, to take the competitive civil service examination for full-time police officer positions. This legislation specifically overrides certain provisions of the civil service law, particularly age requirements, to provide Mr. Raftery the eligibility to compete for a full-time role. The bill recognizes the significance of his ongoing service and aims to streamline his transition into a more permanent employment status within the police department.

Contention

While the bill focuses on a specific individual, discussions around its implications may involve broader themes of civil service reform and local governance. Critics may raise concerns about the fairness of providing exceptions to general civil service rules, arguing it could lead to favoritism or undermine the integrity of the competitive examination process. These points of contention highlight the balance between individual merit and the standardized procedures designed to ensure equity in public employment.