Glossary

A proposed local law introduced by a council member. Most legislation starts here, prefixed "Int.".

An Introduction that has passed the Council and become law — the city equivalent of a statute.

A formal expression of the Council's opinion or position. It does not create binding city law.

A zoning or land-use matter the Council reviews, typically through ULURP, after City Planning action.

A matter through which a committee examines the operation of city agencies or programs.

One of 51 elected members, each representing a single district across the five boroughs.

The presiding officer of the Council, elected by the members; sets the legislative agenda.

The council member who introduces a piece of legislation and is its primary advocate.

A council member who formally adds their name in support of a sponsor's legislation.

The council member who leads a committee, schedules hearings, and manages its referred matters.

A group of members that reviews legislation in a policy area before it reaches the full Council.

The assignment of a newly introduced matter to the committee responsible for that subject.

A committee meeting where members hear testimony on legislation or conduct oversight.

A regular full-Council session where final votes on legislation are taken.

The point at which a passed Introduction takes effect as a Local Law, with an enactment number.

The Council's public legislative information system — the source of record for matters and votes.

A vote in favor of the matter under consideration.

A vote against the matter under consideration.

A member is present but formally declines to vote either way.

The matter received the required number of affirmative votes and is adopted.

The matter did not receive the required number of affirmative votes.