New Laws
A new year brings a host of changes in the laws of the state, and the Governor is busy signing bills to make them a reality. One of the biggest new laws will help victims and survivors in their quest to receive victim compensation funds. Another will increase the amount of money a city can spend on public safety, while another makes it easier for people to become tenants in NYCHA buildings.
The new law known as “Matthew’s Law” will also help decrease drug overdose deaths by allowing local pharmacies and health care providers to give out life-saving fentanyl and other drug adulterant testing supplies. And another new law, authored by Senator Skinner, will hold big oil companies accountable for fleecing Californians at the pump.
New York state laws include the New York Constitution, laws passed by the Legislature and codified in the New York Consolidated Laws, and decisions made by courts that interpret these laws. These laws govern the conduct of citizens, businesses and government agencies in the State of New York.
Laws are first proposed as bills and are then considered by the Legislature. The bill drafting process is a complex and lengthy undertaking, which involves extensive legal research and analysis. This work is generally performed by staff of the legislative branch or other agencies that are authorized to draft legislation. Interested parties, such as citizens or organizations, may also have attorneys draft legislation on their behalf.
Once a bill has been drafted, it is considered by the House and Senate. If both houses approve a bill, it is sent to the Governor for signature or veto. The Governor has 10 days to sign or veto a bill, and, if the Governor does not sign or veto a bill, it becomes law.