Gov. Andrew Cuomo on Friday evening signed into a law bill that would fund his own potential impeachment proceeding in the state Legislature after it was given final approval by state lawmakers this week as investigations into multiple controversies facing the three-term Democrat continue. 

The provision would allow lawmakers to dip into a $156.9 million fund of existing money usually set aside for the state to pay for lawsuits. The money would be used to conduct interviews, investigations and hold hearings "necessary to inform the decisions relating to such proceedings" under the impeachment provisions in the state constitution. 

Cuomo would be barred from seeking reimbursement for services and expenses related to legal representation in an impeachment, however.

The Democratic-controlled Assembly earlier this year launched an impeachment investigation of Cuomo to review allegations of sexual harassment and misconduct, as well as the reporting of nursing home deaths during the pandemic. Cuomo has maintained he has done nothing wrong. Still, prominent Democratic officials in New York have called for Cuomo to resign amid the allegations.

Lawmakers concluded the scheduled legislative session this week, but have not ruled out a return to take up measures that failed to pass this week.

An impeachment would originate in the state Assembly and a trial would then be held in the state Senate. During that time, Cuomo would be required to at least temporarily step down as the trial is held.