Lancman Tries to FOIL NY Secrecy

In the aftermath of the state Legislature applauding itself for strides in transparency during Sunshine Week, a meaningful change to the state's FOIL procedures from Democratic Assemblyman Rory Lancman languishes in the committee process.
Lancman's proposal (AB 5161) is aimed at rectifying the current appeals process for instances of denied access to public records. His bill argues that the current appeals method dissuades people from submitting legitimate claims, which is why he wants to allow the state's attorney general to review the appeals.
If enacted, citizens could appeal a denied request within 30 days to the AG's office, which would have 20 days to determine whether the appeal is worthwhile. If the appealed is deemed without merit, then the citizen can avail himself of his right to a day in court.
This proposal was previously introduced by Assemblyman Dick Brodsky, but it never advanced.

The Anti-Robert Byrd Memorial Highway Gym Library Park

Assemblyman Rory Lancman, D-Queens, has introduced a bill that would prohibit legislators from naming facilities after themselves while they are still in office.
This legislation is aimed at preventing the perception of any quid pro quo agreements between elected officials and entities that receive state funds. It would also try to serve to remove another existing advantage that incumbent elected officials are able to enjoy in New York State.
The bill (AB 203) was previously introduced in 2010 and failed to make any headway in the Assembly. Its companion in the senate was either held by the sponsor, former Sen. Craig Johnson, or held for consideration.
This is the kind of bill that I can imagine making a senior member or committee chair say, "Not Over My Dead Body."