Gov. Hochul’s Plan to Curb NYC Mayor’s Power Stalled in State Legislature

Gov. Kathy Hochul has chosen not to exercise her power to dismiss Mayor Eric Adams, opting instead to seek legislation that would limit his authority over city government. Nevertheless, state legislators claim this measure is currently stuck.

Essential Points

• Gov. Kathy Hochul, referring to the situation as a crisis, proposed curtailing Mayor Eric Adams’ power over City Hall about a week ago
• The governor’s plan includes forming a new city inspector general, extending the state comptroller’s oversight authority, and permitting certain city officials to sue the federal government without City Hall’s consent
• Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, a potential mayoral candidate, could find her position complicated by these proposed power limitations

Hochul suggested the curbs on Adams’ power due to an urgent situation. “I believe my proposed actions will aid New Yorkers’ protection,” she stated on Feb. 20 when announcing the measures.

However, state legislative leaders suggest these plans may be on hold. “It doesn’t seem like we’re proceeding forward,” stated Michael Gianaris, the Democratic State Senate Deputy Majority Leader.

The proposed ideas include:

• The establishment of a new city inspector general
• An expansion of oversight powers for the state comptroller
• Allowing some city officials to sue the federal government without needing City Hall approval

Despite these propositions, there is yet no bill for voting on these measures. “We are a long way off from anything like that proceeding,” claimed Gianaris.

Democratic State Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie emphasizes that the City Council must make the first step.

Reducing current mayoral powers could place Council Speaker Adrienne Adams in a challenging position, considering her mayoral interests.

Adams and his remaining supporters denounce the governor’s attempts to limit his power or remove him from office as inappropriate.

Other potential candidates, including former Gov. Andrew Cuomo who resigned under impeachment threat in 2021, are closely observing the situation. “I did speak to him recently,” admitted Heastie to NY1, hinting at the possibility of Cuomo becoming New York City’s mayor.