Butler Sponsors NYS Government Transparency Act

February 5, 2013

Assemblyman Marc W. Butler (R,C,I-Newport) shown speaking about the NYS Government Transparency Act of which he is a sponsor.

Assemblyman Marc Butler (R,C,I-Newport) joined his legislative colleagues today to introduce the NYS Government Transparency Act. Key components of the bill would prohibit the passage of legislation late at night and end the governor’s ability to misuse the ‘Message of Necessity’, which was most recently used by Governor Cuomo in his push for gun control. Both have been used as tactics to pass controversial legislation and avoid scrutiny and oversight from the public, legislators and the media.

“Less than a month ago, elected officials were held hostage and forced to take up a bill that trampled on New Yorkers’ constitutional rights and crushed any and all opportunities for public input and serious debate,” said Butler.

“With the introduction of this bill, my Minority colleagues and I are taking back The People’s House by strengthening the legislative process. I took an oath to the people of the 118th Assembly District to uphold the constitution, defend their rights and be their voice in Albany. Today, with this legislation, I am more confident that we can better serve our constituencies.”

In the past, the Assembly Majority has forced late night sessions, sometimes going well into the next day to pass controversial legislation. This has been used to gerrymander legislative districts, alter the pension system, and promote casino gambling in New York State. This bill would prohibit legislative proceedings between midnight and 8 a.m.

Furthermore, this bill clearly outlines acceptable use of the governor’s Message of Necessity and limits it to emergency use only. Butler says the governor’s use of it to pass his gun control bill was an undemocratic and clear attempt to circumvent law-abiding citizens’ Second Amendment rights. The NYS Government Transparency Act would support the need for a three-day waiting period on legislation to allow for public input and discourse.

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