Requires the state commission on judicial conduct to transmit its annual budget request to the governor for inclusion in the executive budget without revision; relates to complaints regarding judges and confidentiality of records; extends the jurisdiction of the state commission on judicial conduct as to judges who resign or retire while under investigation or formal charges.
Creates a private right of action for improper debt collection procedures; allows plaintiffs to recover punitive damages and reasonable attorney's fees.
Provides that for members of a public pension or retirement system, accrued benefits shall not be diminished or impaired except as authorized and prescribed by the legislature.
Establishes the New York state public defense commission to oversee the provision of public defense services in the state; such commission shall establish public defense services standards, provide financial assistance to local governments and public defense providers for expenses incurred in providing legal services to the indigent, provide training to persons in the public defense profession and oversee the provision of public defense services in the state.
Requires each branch of state government and political subdivision of the state to establish and abide by a code of ethics; requires ethics commissions; sets standards for codes.