Authorizes the creation of a legislative dormitory facility; decreases legislative per diems; appropriation

1 Co-sponsor

• Tony Avella

BILL NUMBER:S5297 REVISED 6/20/13

Title of bill

An act to amend the public authorities law, in relation to authorizing a dormitory facility for the legislature; to amend the legislative law, in relation to per diems of legislative members; and making an appropriation therefor

Title of bill

An act to amend the public authorities law, in relation to authorizing a dormitory facility for the legislature; to amend the legislative law, in relation to per diems of legislative members; and making an appropriation therefor

Purpose or general idea of bill

To authorize the creation of a legislative dormitory which will eliminate the need for per diem allowances for housing.

Summary of specific provisions

Section 1 amends the public authorities law by adding a new section, 1680r.

Section 2 grants responsibility for operation and maintenance of the dormitory facility to the New York State Dormitory Authority; allows per. diems for food only while in travel status in the performance of his or her duties, which would be equivalent to the most recent federal per diem rates published by the General Services Administration.

Section 3 appropriates the sum of nine million dollars, or so much thereof as may be necessary, to the dormitory authority for the purpose of carrying out the provisions of this act.

Section 4 states the effective date.

Justification

This bill would modify the current system for housing legislators while they are on government or legislative business in Albany. It would eliminate the current per diem (housing) reimbursement system and fund the construction of a legislative dormitory. The dormitory would be clean and comfortable but not extravagant, providing legislators with a safe space near the Capitol. At the same time, the dormitory could assist the local Albany economy by providing a use for commercial properties within walking distance of the Capitol which have been abandoned for years - as well as potential customers for local shops and restaurants.

Most importantly, once the dormitory construction is paid off, this legislation will save millions of dollars annually in taxpayer. money. The State would be expected break even on its 9 million investment in 5 years or less.

Prior legislative history

None.

Fiscal implications

Approximately nine million dollars to complete construction of the dormitory with resulting savings of approximated two to three million dollars each year thereafter.

Effective date

Immediately provided however that section 2 of this act shall take effect upon the date of occupancy of the legislative dormitory facility by members of the legislature.