The law is a complex system of rules, statutes, ordinances, regulations and court decisions that shape public policy. New laws are created to address specific issues, update existing policies or respond to changing needs in society. The process of creating a new law reflects democratic principles of representation and accountability, as elected representatives hear the voices of their constituents and debate legislation based on their understanding of the issues facing communities.
The Mayor has 30 days to sign or veto a bill passed by Council, and the City Charter and Administrative Code can be amended by an action taken by Council. When a bill is approved by both chambers of the Council and signed into law by the Mayor, it becomes a New York State law. If a bill is vetoed, the Council can override the Mayor’s veto by a 2/3 vote.
Legislation signed into law today by Governor Kathy Hochul expands protections for domestic violence victims in criminal and family court. The law makes it easier to get an order of protection against an abuser, and allows family members and household members to file domestic violence crimes in both criminal and family court. This is a crucial step forward in protecting those who need it most.
This law makes changes to maintenance laws in New York, requiring courts to consider a range of factors when determining whether a spouse should be awarded counsel fees and expert fees by the other spouse. It is hoped that the law will help prevent financial harm to women who are seeking legal assistance to protect their interests and their children’s.
The new law amends the City’s data breach notification laws to make them more consistent with requirements in New York State law and to ensure that City agencies comply with their obligations to disclose when private identifying information of employees and job applicants has been accessed, disclosed or used by an unauthorized person or entity. This includes making the notice available to agency employees and job applicants, and making it easier for DCWP to identify affected individuals.
The law amends the City’s license rules to implement Local Law 49 of 2024, modifying the penalty schedule for violations of the Department’s consumer protection laws and rules and local laws and regulations that apply to newsstands. The law also amends the rules to implement Local Law 50 of 2024, modifying the application procedures and siting requirements for licensed newsstands. The law also amends rules to implement Local Law 129 of 2021, which adds an exception to the item pricing requirements for retail stores that have scanners available for customer use. The rules also provide guidance on the required number of, and adequate locations for, price scanners.