NY A00653

Creates a non-partisan legislative budget office headed by a director appointed by joint resolution requiring a two-thirds vote of both the Senate and Assembly for a seven-year term.

Director shall be appointed based solely on fitness to perform duties without regard to political affiliation, with the Temporary President of the Senate and Speaker of the Assembly consulting with minority leaders to reach consensus on a candidate.

Office shall provide information to legislative committees on the state budget, examine financial information for revenue estimates, render revenue forecast reports to the Legislature and Governor, and provide fiscal impact analysis of proposed legislation at members' request.

Office shall submit an annual report by March 1st to legislative leaders including revenue estimates, economic projections, summary of the Governor's budget, and alternative revenue sources.

Office shall be funded equally by Senate and Assembly appropriations, with director authority to hire staff, including budget analysts and consultants, and procure computer equipment within available funds.