Relates to decreasing the number of legislators

BILL NUMBER:A9188

Title of bill

CONCURRENT RESOLUTION OF THE SENATE AND ASSEMBLY proposing amendments to section 2 of article 3 of the constitution, in relation to the membership of the senate and assembly

Purpose or general idea of bill

To decrease the size of the New York State Senate from fifty members to forty members and the size of the New York State Assembly from one hundred fifty members to one hundred members.

Summary of specific provisions

Amends section 2 of article 3 of the New York State Constitution.

Justification

From time to time, as the legislature has seen fit, the size and composition of the both houses of the legislature has been altered to better reflect trends across the state. Our time is no different and New York again needs to reexamine the size of its legislature. Advances in communication technology and transportation make accurate and attentive representation possible for larger populations per member.

Further New Yorkers are becoming increasingly dissatisfied with the cost of government and its administration. Such a reduction in the size of both the Assembly and Senate immediately will reduce certain cost in salaries and benefits.

Legislative history

This is new legislation.

Fiscal implications

To be determined.

Effective date

The forgoing amendment be referred to the first legislative session convening after the next general election of members of the assembly, and in conformity with section 1 of article 19 of the constitution, be published for 3 months previous to the time of such election.