New York Executive Law Section 54 - Powers.

54. Powers. The state inspector general shall have the power to:

1. subpoena and enforce the attendance of witnesses;

2. administer oaths or affirmations and examine witnesses under oath;

3. require the production of any books and papers deemed relevant or material to any investigation, examination or review;

4. notwithstanding any law to the contrary, examine and copy or remove documents or records of any kind prepared, maintained or held by any covered agency;

5. require any officer or employee in a covered agency to answer questions concerning any matter related to the performance of his or her official duties. No statement or other evidence derived therefrom may be used against such officer or employee in any subsequent criminal prosecution other than for perjury or contempt arising from such testimony. The refusal of any officer or employee to answer questions shall be cause for removal from office or employment or other appropriate penalty;

6. monitor the implementation by covered agencies of any recommendations made by state inspector general;

7. perform any other functions that are necessary or appropriate to fulfill the duties and responsibilities of office.


Last modified: February 3, 2019