On his last day in office, outgoing New York City Mayor Eric Adams challenged the City Council by vetoing 19 bills and forming a new charter revision commission. His actions are poised to incite controversy and could impact the incoming administration.
Vetoes Shatter Legislative Agenda
Among the vetoed legislation, several significant measures aimed at enhancing city operations and community welfare were included. Key vetoed bills were:
- Expansion of street vending licenses.
- Protections for ride-hailing drivers from unjust app deactivations.
- Prevention of federal immigration authorities from operating at Rikers Island.
- Access for the Civilian Complaint Review Board to police body-cam footage.
Additional vetoes affected various city-funded affordable housing initiatives, which are crucial in addressing the city’s housing crisis. The full list of vetoed bills comprises Introductions 125-A, 276-A, 408-A, 431-B, 479-A, 570-B, 902-B, 958-A, 1120-B, 1251-A, 1279-B, 1391-A, 1407-A, 1412-A, 1419-A, 1420-A, 1433-A, 1443-A, and 1451-A.
Adams’ Justification for Vetoes
In a statement following the vetoes, Adams argued that the bills contradicted his vision of supporting working-class New Yorkers. He stated, “These bills will worsen our affordable housing crisis… undermine our small businesses… and violate state laws.” Adams lamented the Council’s approach, suggesting a lack of willingness to work collaboratively.
Implications for the New City Council
The vetoes present a formidable challenge for presumptive City Council Speaker Julie Menin. As the new City Council convenes in early January, members will have a limited timeframe to vote on whether to override the vetoes. A two-thirds majority will be necessary for success. Some vetoed bills, especially those related to affordable housing, had previously received a veto-proof majority.
- Menin has expressed her intention to lead override efforts on certain bills.
- Previous vetoes, including one affecting sexual abuse claim filings, may foster unity within the Council in seeking overrides.
Reactions from Council Leadership
Outgoing Council Speaker Adrienne Adams criticized the decision, asserting that it highlights a disregard for working-class priorities. She emphasized the need for the next Council to defend the vetoed bills and prioritize affordability and public safety.
New Charter Revision Commission
Less than an hour after announcing the vetoes, Adams convened a new charter revision commission. The panel is tasked with exploring reforms to the city’s primary election system. This controversial move is anticipated to fuel tensions between Adams and the incoming administration under Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani.
Responses to Adams’ Maneuvers
Adams’ spokesperson defended the establishment of the commission as an effort to expand voting rights for New Yorkers. The mayor’s final actions also drew criticism from the City Council, particularly from Adrienne Adams, who described them as undemocratic. Council spokesperson Mandela Jones remarked on Adams’ tendency to undermine the legislative process, stating, “This mayor abused the charter revision process repeatedly.”
As both the vetoes and the formation of the charter commission set the stage for a contentious transition, the future of numerous initiatives remains intertwined with the forthcoming City Council’s response.
