Statement regarding Special Session

November 22, 2010

For Immediate Release

Statement from State Senator Rev. Rubén Díaz

Bronx, NY – State Senator Rev. Rubén Díaz released the following statement:

“Governor David A. Paterson has called the Legislature back to Albany on November 29, 2010 in order to address so-called ‘unfinished business’.

“I will be present for this session.

“What I will not do is vote for any more cuts, especially cuts that will harm senior citizens, the Black and Hispanic community, and our children’s education.

“I was re-elected with a strong mandate from my community to protect their services, not to cut them, especially during this holiday season.

“I am not willing to give them such a gift by cutting their much-needed services.

“I also call on Governor Paterson to release $5.1 million in funding for NY Connects: Choices for Long Term Care immediately, a program geared to the senior citizens of New York State.

“Funding for this important program was already approved by the Legislature in the 2010-2011 State Budget.

“Governor Paterson has withheld the release of this money, causing a serious delay in contract implementation for County Offices for the Aging that was scheduled to start on October 1, 2010.

“I will never stop fighting for my constituents because they expect nothing less from me.”

For additional information contact Senator Rev. Rubén Díaz

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