A state Supreme Court judge has upheld a law capping New York lawmakers’ outside income at $35,000, forcing dozens of legislators—mostly Republicans—to choose between their government roles or private-sector jobs. The law, signed by Gov. Kathy Hochul in 2022, aimed to curb conflicts of interest and accompanied a salary hike to $142,000.
Justice Alison Napolitano ruled the restriction constitutional but struck down a provision revoking voting rights for violators. Republican lawmakers have appealed, warning of mass resignations, costly special elections, and weakened representation for 3.5 million constituents. They seek a stay on enforcement, arguing the law unfairly impacts the minority party.
With no clear enforcement guidance, lawmakers await a ruling on whether past earnings count toward the cap. Meanwhile, state attorneys oppose delaying implementation, leaving affected legislators in legal limbo.
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