Ex-ethics panelist blasts records request

Batra said that appears to include his notes. Violation of the law by a commissioner could result in a misdemeanor charge.

Commission spokesman John Milgrim said the request for documents is routine when someone leaves.

Batra resigned Sept. 7. He warned that the commission lacked political independence from Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo, who appointed its chairwoman and some members who then picked an executive director who worked for Cuomo, a Democrat.