Senators advance 25 bills including police officer hiring and retirement reforms

The Senate Standing Committee on Civil Service and Pensions convened on May 27, 2025, to discuss and advance several key legislative bills aimed at enhancing employment opportunities and benefits for police officers and other civil service employees in New York.

The meeting began with the introduction of Bill S1232, sponsored by Senator May, which authorizes Christopher Boeser to take the competitive civil service examination for a police officer position in the Village of Sky. The committee unanimously agreed to report this bill to the floor.

Following this, Senator Jackson presented Bill S1311, which similarly allows Jonathan Montaglia to be placed on the eligible list for police officer employment. This bill also received unanimous support for reporting.

Senator Rhodes introduced Bill S2461, which pertains to the New York state and local rated police system. This bill was directed to the finance committee for further consideration. Another bill, S3880 by Senator Washington, was also reported to the finance committee.

Senator Stegg's Bill S4448, which addresses the employment of retired members of the Division of State Police and special patrol officers in Cleveland County, was moved but failed to receive a second for discussion.

Senator Fady's Bills S4499 and S4542, both aimed at authorizing individuals to take civil service examinations for police officer positions, were reported favorably to the floor after receiving unanimous votes.

The committee also reviewed several other bills, including S4725, which allows Michael Vincent Horn to file a new service application on behalf of a deceased member, and S5026b, which amends general municipal law regarding benefits distribution. Both bills were reported to the finance committee.

In total, the committee discussed 25 bills, with many focusing on enhancing the rights and benefits of police officers and civil service employees. The meeting concluded with a strong emphasis on supporting the workforce within the civil service sector, reflecting ongoing efforts to improve employment conditions and opportunities in New York.