SENATOR HOYLMAN “OVERJOYED” AT CONFIRMATION OF JUDGE PAUL FEINMAN AS FIRST OPENLY LGBT PERSON TO SERVE ON NEW YORK’S HIGHEST COURT

ALBANY – State Senator Brad Hoylman (D, WF-Manhattan), the only openly LGBT member of the New York State Senate and Ranking Member on the Senate Judiciary Committee, released the following statement celebrating Judge Paul Feinman’s confirmation as the first openly LGBT judge to serve on the Court of Appeals, New York State’s highest court.

“I’m overjoyed that Judge Paul Feinman has been confirmed by the State Senate to the New York State Court of Appeals as its first openly LGBT member. This historic appointment by Governor Cuomo sends an important message to all New Yorkers about the importance of diversity and acceptance. Even more important, Judge Feinman is a seasoned jurist with impeccable credentials and the respect and admiration from peers and practitioners, alike, who will apply the law fairly. Today’s confirmation of the first gay man on the Court of Appeals is a wonderful way to begin Pride Weekend.”

The confirmation of Judge Feinman comes three weeks after Senator Hoylman and the four other openly gay members of the State Legislature sent a letter to the Governor urging him to make history by appointing an LGBT judge to the Court of Appeals.