Establishes the commission to investigate foreign influence on governmental employees and elections

S 8591 establishes a 25-member commission to investigate foreign influence on New York State government and elections. The commission, appointed by state leadership (governor, assembly speaker, senate leaders), will examine weaknesses in laws related to lobbying by foreign entities, public corruption, ethics rules for government employees, and foreign interference in elections. It must issue a preliminary report by May 2026 and a final report by May 2027, making recommendations for legislative reforms. The commission has subpoena power but requires chairperson approval for subpoenas and must refer evidence of law violations to prosecutors. The commission expires six months after the final report is submitted.