Court considers future of NY ethics commission amid Cuomo’s legal battle

An appeals court in Albany deliberated on the constitutionality and future of the state’s ethics and lobbying commission following a lawsuit from former Governor Andrew Cuomo. Cuomo’s legal challenge centers on the authority of the commission, arguing it overstepped its bounds in pursuing him over earnings from his COVID-19 pandemic memoir, which netted him $5 million.

The controversy arose from the commission’s move to compel Cuomo to return the money, asserting he exploited his gubernatorial position for personal gain. Cuomo, however, contends the commission lacks the constitutional jurisdiction for such enforcement actions, suggesting that this power rightfully resides within the executive branch.

The case, which has ignited debates over the limits of ethics oversight in New York, awaits a decision from the mid-level appeals court. This ruling, expected in the forthcoming months, could significantly impact the operational scope of the commission and set a precedent for how state officials are held accountable for ethical violations.