For Immediate Release: January 5, 2015

Contact: Gary Ginsburg | ginsburg@nysenate.gov | 518-455-2415

Statement From Senate Democratic Conference Leader Andrea

Stewart-Cousins
It is disappointing to read in recent reports that for yet another Legislative Session, all
Democrats in the State Senate will not work together to serve the residents of New York State.
Senator Skelos first statement after being elected GOP Leader was that they would continue to
block all progressive legislation including a much needed hike in the minimum wage, protections
for women and real ethics reforms. The Republican conference has also continuously stated their
opposition to any criminal justice reforms. I had hoped that Senator Klein and the IDC would
have thought carefully about these policies before accepting a junior partner role consisting
exclusively of personal perks. Going forward I hope that when the numbers dictate they do not
empower a false majority as has happened in the past but work as equal partners in a Democratic
Senate to move New York forward.
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New York State Senate | DemocraticConferenceNews@nysenate.gov | 518-455-2415