NY A04446

Divides New York State into three autonomous regions (New Amsterdam, New York, and Montauk) with separate regional legislatures, governors, and court systems, each with independent lawmaking authority over most state functions.

Establishes regional legislatures with directly elected senators and assembly members who also serve in a scaled-back state legislature meeting only in April and May; state legislature limited to sales tax (maximum 4%), federal relations, military, and elections for state-wide offices.

Transfers most state departments, agencies, and functions to regional control, including education, courts, law enforcement, and tax collection; state retains Court of Appeals, Court of Claims, State Comptroller, and certain statewide institutions.

Creates separate unified court systems for each region with regional superior courts, appellate divisions, and lower courts; state Court of Appeals remains as highest authority with judges nominated by regional governors and state governor.

Modifies constitutional amendment approval to require 55 percent voter approval in all three regions; allows formation of new towns through local petition and voter approval; imposes 2 percent budget increase caps on local governments in New Amsterdam and Montauk regions unless voters approve higher increases.