In 2025, the Levin Center conducted a study of all 50 states to examine how legislatures ensure government programs work effectively for citizens. Factors such as legislative oversight committees, routine engagement with executive agencies, collection of casework data, digital transparency tools, and user-centered policy evaluation were of particular importance. The full report can be found here.
State Summary #
The New York State Legislature had, at the time of writing, two committees tasked with performing oversight, many of which meet regularly. Public input is limited — citizens can write to members of the committees, and, in at least one instance, a committee chair conducted a community survey. However, oral testimony at oversight hearings is by invitation only.
New York Legislators have district offices and staff, allowing closer work with constituents. The Senate uses an institution-wide computer system for managing constituent contacts, and its user-facing website stands out among its peers for including clear information about legislative activity and soliciting feedback from citizens, even on individual bills.
