NY S00233

Prohibits the passage of bills by the legislature between the hours of midnight and eight o'clock a.m. unless 2/3 of the legislature is present; requires two-thirds approval for messages of necessity.

Introduced Senate James Tedisco (R)
Plain English Summary

New York State Senate Bill S00233 aims to change how the state legislature operates by introducing two main rules: 1) It prohibits passing bills between midnight and 8:00 a.m. unless at least two-thirds of the legislature is present. 2) It requires a two-thirds majority approval for 'messages of necessity,' which are special requests that allow bills to be expedited, bypassing the usual waiting periods. These changes are intended to promote transparency and ensure thorough deliberation in the legislative process.

Supporters Say

Supporters of the bill argue that it enhances legislative transparency and accountability. By restricting late-night sessions and requiring broader consensus for expedited bills, the bill aims to prevent hasty decision-making and ensure that laws are passed with adequate scrutiny. Proponents believe these measures will restore public trust in the legislative process and lead to more thoughtful policymaking.

Critics Say

Critics contend that the bill could impede the legislature's ability to respond swiftly to urgent matters. The requirement for a two-thirds majority to approve 'messages of necessity' might delay critical legislation during emergencies. Additionally, the restriction on late-night sessions could prolong the legislative process, potentially leading to inefficiencies, especially during periods of high legislative activity.

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About This Analysis

This summary was generated using AI from the bill's official text and metadata. Data sourced from LegiScan and the New York State Legislature. Conflict-of-interest analysis for this bill is coming soon.