Statement from Senator Craig M. Johnson, (D-Nassau):

“At this time of economic crisis, teachers in the Port Washington and Roslyn school districts, which I represent, made a responsible and laudable decision to forgo raises this coming year. Members of public employee unions should do the same. Such a move would send the right message as families continue to struggle and our economy continues to rebuild, as well as help out the state in the midst of budget negotiations. I believe elected officials should not be increasing their compensation for these same reasons. I have introduced legislation to freeze per diem rates of all state lawmakers. This measure, (S6227A), has already passed out of the Senate Investigations and Government Operations Committee. I believe this is a bill deserving of a vote before the full Senate.”