NY Laws & Constitution

The New York State Constitution establishes the structure of New York State government and lays out the basic rights of its citizens. Since the adoption of its first constitution in 1777, New York has had five constitutions.  New York’s current constitution was adopted in 1938; it has been amended many times – most recently in 2002.  To read the New York State Constitution, click here.

The constitution vests legislative power of the state in a bicameral (two house) legislature, which consists of a 150-member Assembly and a 62-member Senate.  The New York State Government Information Locator Service provides more information about the Assembly and the Senate.  You can also search for public information like laws, pending bills, resolutions, and information about the Legislature’s calendar.