Ethics & Guidance

The New York State Assembly Ethics and Guidance Committee is responsible for reviewing, investigating, and taking action on matters involving alleged violations of the Assembly’s ethics policies. Its primary focus is to ensure compliance with rules prohibiting harassment, discrimination, retaliation, and inappropriate relationships between Assembly members and student interns. The committee provides guidance on ethical standards, upholds the integrity of the legislature, and fosters a safe, respectful environment for all who work in or interact with the Assembly.

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The Committee’s legal authority derives from the Assembly Rules and state-issued policies regarding ethics, workplace conduct, and employee relations. Its work directly supports enforcement of the Assembly Policy Prohibiting Harassment, Discrimination and Retaliation, as well as other legislative codes and internal procedural rules rather than a specific chapter of the Consolidated Laws. The committee coordinates with the Legislative Ethics Commission regarding disclosure and advisory functions, as established in Article 5 of the Legislative Law.

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Assembly Member Karen McMahon serves as Chair, with Assembly Member Joseph Angelino as Ranking Member. The Ethics and Guidance Committee is unique in that it has eight members—an equal number from both the Majority and Minority parties. Meetings are typically scheduled in accordance with the Assembly legislative calendar, often mid-morning on selected Wednesdays; precise details are posted on the Assembly’s official website. Full membership as of 2025 includes Karen McMahon, Joseph Angelino, Harry B. Bronson, Catalina Cruz, Charles D. Lavine, Angelo J. Morinello, Michael Reilly, and Robert Smullen.