What's happening
This resolution allows one-third, instead of a majority, of committee members to require a public hearing in the Assembly.
Why it matters
Empowers minority voices in committees. By allowing just one-third (instead of a majority) of committee members to require a public hearing, the amendment reduces the power of the majority to block public input, making it easier for minority viewpoints within a committee to bring issues into the open.
Potential for increased transparency and accountability. More public hearings could mean greater opportunity for stakeholders, advocacy groups, and ordinary citizens to testify on pending legislation, increasing the legislature's responsiveness to public concerns.
May lead to more robust legislative debate. With easier access to public hearings, controversial or overlooked issues are more likely to receive attention, potentially resulting in more thorough scrutiny and discussion before decisions are made.
Could affect legislative workflow. An increase in mandatory hearings might slow down the legislative process or require additional resources, as committees may have to accommodate more public input and logistical arrangements.
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Headline styles
Easier Committee Public Hearings
Plain English, a few words. Used as the page title.
Sponsors
No co-sponsors yet.
History
- Lost
- Introduced
Full text
1 pageUnderlined is new[Struck] is removedOfficial text on nysenate.gov ↗
Assembly Resolution No. 34 BY: M. of A. Kolb AMENDING section 4 of Rule IV of the Assembly rules, in relation to public hearings RESOLVED, That section 4 of Rule IV of the Assembly rules is amended to read as follows: § 4. Hearings. a. During each legislative… Show allHide
Assembly Resolution No. 34 BY: M. of A. Kolb AMENDING section 4 of Rule IV of the Assembly rules, in relation to public hearings RESOLVED, That section 4 of Rule IV of the Assembly rules is amended to read as follows: § 4. Hearings. a. During each legislative session, chairpersons of standing committees may call public hearings to permit interested persons, groups or organizations the opportunity to testify orally or in writing on legislation or other matters pending before such standing committee provided, however, that each chairperson shall call such public hearings upon a petition signed by [a majority] one-third of the members of the committee. Such testimony if submitted in writing shall be posted on the Assembly Internet site to the extent practicable. b. Consistent with the provisions of subdivision d of section one of Rule IV hereof, the chairperson of each standing committee shall call at least one public hearing after the adoption of the state budget regarding the implementation and administration of programs of departments, agencies, divisions, authorities, boards, commissions, public benefit corporations and other entities within the jurisdiction of such committee. The purpose of such public hearing shall include, but not be limited to, the impact, if any, of the state budget on the implementation and administration of the programs within such entities' jurisdiction. c. Other public hearings may be called by committee chairpersons with prior consent of the Speaker and in accordance with procedure established by law. d. Each chairperson shall prepare a schedule setting forth the date and place for hearings and the subject matter to be considered thereat. Copies of such schedule shall be made available to the general public and representatives of the news media at least seven days prior to the date of such hearing and filed with the Assembly Public Information Office.
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