Cuomo Impeachment Investigation Approved by Assembly Speaker

New York State Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie has authorized a key committee to move forward with an impeachment investigation following allegations of misconduct by Governor Andrew Cuomo.

Heastie announced the action late Thursday after meeting with Assembly Democrats to discuss what should be done about the accusations made by several women.

The speaker said the investigation will be conducted by the judiciary committee. The probe will be led by committee chairman Charles Lavine.

Heastie said the reported allegations accusations concerning Cuomo are serious. He said the committee will be able to interview witnesses, subpoena documents and evaluate evidence.

Attorney General Letitia James issued a statement saying the action by the legislature "will have no bearing on our independent investigation" into the allegations against the governor.

Cuomo has denied any inappropriate conduct but he has declined to respond to specific allegations made by six women.