New York Senate Bill S08402

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/9/25
• Refer: 6/9/25
• Engrossed: 6/12/25
• Refer: 6/12/25
• Engrossed: 6/13/25

Caption

Extends provisions relating to public hearings on proposed rules until January 1, 2027.

Impact

The extension of the provisions under S08402 holds significant implications for state laws concerning the rule-making process. It reinforces the state's commitment to transparency and accountability in governance, especially as it pertains to how administrative rules are developed and implemented. By continuing to facilitate public hearings, the bill aims to enhance the democratic process, promoting citizen engagement in shaping the policies that affect their lives. This can potentially lead to more informed and balanced regulations that take into account diverse perspectives from the public.

Summary

Bill S08402 seeks to amend the provisions regarding public hearings on proposed rules under the New York State Administrative Procedure Act. The primary aim of this bill is to extend the current provisions relating to public hearings, which are set to expire, thereby allowing these provisions to remain in effect until January 1, 2027. This extension serves to uphold the requirements for public participation and input in the regulatory process, ensuring that community voices can continue to be heard as new rules are proposed and established.

Contention

While the bill has been largely seen as a positive step towards increased public involvement, there may be points of contention regarding the effectiveness and efficiency of public hearings. Critics might argue that the extension could lead to delays in the regulatory process, as the requirements for hearings may slow down the implementation of necessary rules. Additionally, there may be discussions around the adequacy of existing processes for public engagement and whether they truly reflect the voices of all stakeholders or primarily represent certain groups. Overall, these debates reflect broader tensions between the need for regulatory oversight and the desire for streamlined governance.