Sen. Espaillat Calls for Common-Sense, Progressive Policies to be Taken up by New Senate Leadership

Adriano Espaillat

December 4, 2012

New York State Senator Adriano Espaillat (D – Manhattan/Bronx) released the following statement in response to the new Senate leadership structure that divides power between the Republican and the Independent Democratic Conference (IDC).

“Though I proudly and actively campaigned for Democratic candidates throughout the state this year, election season is over. It’s time for the real work to begin in pursuit of common sense, progressive policies that move New York State forward.

“From passage of a minimum wage bill that puts money in the pockets of low-wage workers and kick-starts our local economies, to a New York Dream Fund that expands educational opportunities for all New Yorkers, there are serious measures that must be taken up. These measures include efforts to enhance safety and fairness, such as the micro-stamping gun safety legislation and Farmworkers Bill of Rights.

“As the IDC and the Senate Republican Conference take over Senate powers, I strongly urge them to bring these pragmatic measures up for a vote and have a real, substantive dialogue about progressive solutions to New York State’s many challenges.”