Actions or proceedings challenging provisions of this chapter

§ 16-101. Actions or proceedings challenging provisions of this chapter. 1. Notwithstanding any other law to the contrary, in any action or proceeding in which any party challenges the constitutionality of a provision of this chapter, and any related statutory claims, venue shall be proper only in one of the following designated courts in a judicial department within which at least one plaintiff is located:

(a) first judicial department: New York county;

(b) second judicial department: Westchester county;

(c) third judicial department: Albany county; or

(d) fourth judicial department: Erie county.

2. For the purposes of this section, a challenge to the constitutionality of a provision of this chapter shall mean a challenge in any form, including but not limited to a claim, counter-claim, cross-claim, defense, or affirmative defense. Such a claim may be raised by any party, including but not limited to a plaintiff, defendant, third-party plaintiff, third-party defendant, intervenor, or substituted party.