On May 14, 2025, Senate Republicans in Albany called on State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli to reject a provision within the New York State budget that they claim establishes a $10 million fund for covering private legal bills of politicians. The Republican conference argues that this allocation represents a misuse of taxpayer money and urged DiNapoli to refuse issuing payments from this fund.
In their letter to the Comptroller, the Republicans stated, “We write to express our strong opposition to the $10 million appropriation included in the 2025-26 State Operations Budget Bill, which would allow taxpayer funds to be used for payment or reimbursement of attorneys’ fees and related expenses for state employees involved in federal investigations unrelated to their official duties.”
Senate Republican Leader Rob Ortt criticized the creation of what he described as a “slush fund,” stating, “Democrats in New York aren’t fooling anybody. Creating a slush fund for the private legal defense of elected officials or public employees for alleged crimes unrelated to their public duties is beyond the pale.”
Senate Deputy Leader Andrew Lanza also condemned the move by saying, “In yet another slap in the face of hard-working New Yorkers, Governor Hochul and New York Democrats are going to use your money to pay for lawyers to represent themselves when they commit crimes.”
Additionally, Senator Tom O’Mara expressed his disapproval: “In a long line of irresponsible actions coming out of Albany, this one takes irresponsibility to a new level.” He emphasized that taxpayers are already heavily burdened and argued against allocating funds for politicians’ legal expenses.
Senator Bill Weber added his voice by questioning the measure’s alignment with good governance principles: “My constituents elected me because they believe in good government. This policy doesn’t reflect that principle.”
The letter also noted concerns over public accountability and potential constitutional issues raised by this budget allocation. It highlighted that attorney fees would be paid by the state during ongoing legal processes based on audits conducted by the Comptroller.
Republicans concluded their appeal urging DiNapoli not to approve any payments under this provision: “Upholding the integrity of our state government and the responsible use of taxpayer dollars demands no less.”
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