Editor’s note: Link to Senate version of bill is attached

Assemblyman Robert Smullen (R,C,I,SAM-Meco), in partnership with Sen. Joseph A. Griffo, is introducing a bill that would expand and strengthen the checks and balances of our state government. The bill would allow the people to hold accountable those elected officials for their misconduct by allowing them to be removed from office via recall.As a proponent of fighting corruption in state government, Smullen is determined to introduce this measure during these difficult times.

​“If there’s anything we’ve learned over the course of the last few weeks, it’s that those in power need to be held accountable more than ever,” Smullen said. “This bill aims to empower the people to check and balance all government entities throughout the state, including those in the executive branch. I am proud to work with Senator Joseph Griffo for this legislation, for it will give New York State the power to remove toxic leaders.”

“New Yorkers deserve a government that is transparent, responsive and accountable, which is why I have continued to advocate for this and other important citizen initiative measures and election-related reforms during my time in office,” Sen. Griffo said. “Citizen-driven opportunities such as this are needed now more than ever, particularly in light of what we have witnessed can happen when an executive amasses and assumes overarching control of the government. I am looking forward to working with Assemblyman Smullen to move this bill forward and to bring about needed change in our state."

​The bill comes during a time when public faith in elected officials is at an all-time low due to the personal and professional allegations against Governor Cuomo and his administration. “Politicians are to be held accountable if they’ve done wrong. We must recall those who have lost the trust and confidence of the people of New York State,” Smullen concluded.