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A 3377

Removes constitutional provision that the lieutenant-governor shall act as governor when the governor is absent from the state

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Marianne Buttenschon

Bill A 3377 removes the requirement for the lieutenant governor to act as governor when the governor is absent, redefining executive succession and responsibilities.

OPINION REFERRED TO JUDICIARY
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Bill Summary · A 3377

Summary of Bill A 3377

Bill Information

  • Bill Number: A 3377
  • Title: Removes constitutional provision that the lieutenant-governor shall act as governor when the governor is absent from the state
  • Status: Opinion referred to Judiciary
  • Introduced: January 27, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 3377 aims to amend the state constitution by removing the provision that designates the lieutenant governor as the acting governor during the governor's absence from the state. The intent behind this change is to clarify the line of succession and potentially address concerns regarding the powers and responsibilities of the lieutenant governor when the governor is not present.

Key Provisions

  • Removal of Provision: The bill specifically targets the constitutional clause that mandates the lieutenant governor to assume the role of acting governor when the governor is absent.
  • Clarification of Succession: By eliminating this provision, the bill seeks to redefine or clarify the process of gubernatorial succession during the governor's absence.

Impact

  • Governance Structure: The removal of this provision may lead to significant changes in how the state manages executive responsibilities during the governor's absence. It could affect the decision-making process and the distribution of powers within the executive branch.
  • Lieutenant Governor's Role: The lieutenant governor's role may be altered, as they would no longer automatically assume the responsibilities of the governor when the latter is away. This could lead to a reevaluation of the duties assigned to the lieutenant governor.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Actions:
    • January 27, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to Governmental Operations.
    • January 31, 2025: Sent to the Attorney General for an opinion regarding the implications of the proposed changes.
    • February 7, 2025: Referred to the Judiciary Committee for further consideration.

Related Bills

This bill is part of a broader legislative context, with several related bills from prior sessions, including:
- A 4812
- A 2707
- A 3371
- A 2846
- A 3137
- A 1979
- A 3725
- A 9817
- A 1470
- S 1585 (companion bill)

Conclusion

Bill A 3377 proposes a significant constitutional change regarding the role of the lieutenant governor in the absence of the governor. As it moves through the legislative process, its implications for state governance and executive authority will be closely examined by lawmakers and stakeholders.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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