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.
Impact
The proposed changes aim to clarify the succession protocol, ensuring a stable governance structure in the event of political turmoil or unforeseen circumstances. Currently, the constitution does not provide clear guidelines for situations resulting in simultaneous vacancies in both offices, which can lead to legislative uncertainties and risks in state leadership. By formalizing the succession process, the bill intends to maintain continuity in governance during critical periods.
Summary
Senate Bill S07816 proposes an amendment to Article 4 of the New York State Constitution regarding the line of succession for the governor and lieutenant-governor. The bill specifically addresses scenarios in which the governor or lieutenant-governor may be impeached or otherwise unable to fulfill their duties. Under this proposal, if both the governor and lieutenant-governor are incapacitated, the temporary president of the senate would assume the responsibilities of the governor until a new governor can be elected or until the incapacitated officials regain their ability to serve.
Contention
As expected with constitutional amendments, S07816 may face scrutiny during discussions, particularly regarding the centralized power given to legislative leaders. Critics might argue that the provision allowing the temporary president of the senate to step into the governor's role could entail potential conflicts of interest, especially if legislative priorities differ from executive actions. Proponents argue that clear lines of authority lead to improved governance during crises, ultimately helping to protect the state’s democratic structure and functionality.
Relates to the filling of vacancies in the office of lieutenant-governor or governor and the powers and duties of such offices; establishes the committee on gubernatorial disability.
Provides for the filling of vacancies in the office of lieutenant-governor by appointment of the governor subject to confirmation by majority vote in the senate and majority vote in the assembly; provides for an extended order of succession for the filling of a vacancy in the office of the governor.
Provides for the filling of vacancies in the office of lieutenant-governor by appointment of the governor subject to confirmation by majority vote in the senate and majority vote in the assembly; provides for an extended order of succession for the filling of a vacancy in the office of the governor.
Authorizes the governor to fill vacancy in the office of lieutenant-governor on confirmation of both houses of the legislature; allows the governor to leave the state without transmitting power to lieutenant-governor; establishes the process for lieutenant-governor to act as governor during incapacitation of the governor.
Authorizes the governor to fill vacancy in the office of lieutenant-governor on confirmation of both houses of the legislature; allows the governor to leave the state without transmitting power to lieutenant-governor; establishes the process for lieutenant-governor to act as governor during incapacitation of the governor.
Removes constitutional provision that the lieutenant-governor shall act as governor when the governor is absent from the state; provides likewise for the case in which the lieutenant-governor is absent from the state and the case in which the temporary president of the senate is absent from the state.
Removes constitutional provision that the lieutenant-governor shall act as governor when the governor is absent from the state; provides likewise for the case in which the lieutenant-governor is absent from the state and the case in which the temporary president of the senate is absent from the state.