On May 14, 2025, Senate Republicans criticized New York State Democrats for including a $10 million allocation in the budget to cover private legal bills for politicians. This move has been described by some as a misuse of taxpayer money.
Senate Deputy Leader Andrew Lanza stated, “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.”
The Republican conference sent a letter to State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli urging him not to approve payments from this fund. The letter reads: “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 commented on the situation: “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.”
Senator Tom O’Mara also expressed concern: “In a long line of irresponsible actions coming out of Albany, this one takes irresponsibility to a new level.” Senator Bill Weber added that he cannot support such measures: “My constituents elected me because they believe in good government. This policy doesn’t reflect that principle.”
The appropriation’s language allows payments during ongoing processes upon audit by the Comptroller. The letter urges DiNapoli not to authorize any payments under this provision: “Upholding the integrity of our state government and the responsible use of taxpayer dollars demands no less.”
Republicans argue that taxpayers want their money spent on essential services rather than on politicians’ legal fees.
