Gaveled in 3:10 PM · Albany, New York · 2013–14 session
NEW YORK STATE SENATE
THE STENOGRAPHIC RECORD
ALBANY, NEW YORK
May 20, 2013
3:10 p.m.
REGULAR SESSION
SENATOR DAVID J. VALESKY, Acting President
FRANCIS W. PATIENCE, Secretary
P R O C E E D I N G SACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The Senate will come to order.
I ask everyone present to please rise for the presentation of the colors by the 10th Mountain Division of Fort Drum, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
(The Color Guard entered the Senate chamber and presented the colors, after which the assemblage recited the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. The Color Guard exited the Senate chamber.)
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:We are joined at this time by Chaplain Lieutenant Colonel John Kallerson, of the 10th Mountain Division in Fort Drum. He will offer our invocation.
CHAPLAIN KALLERSON:I invite us to pause for a moment of prayer and reflection.
Almighty God, we count it as a privilege to live in this nation and ask that You keep us under Your care, living securely in peace and guided by Your providence.
Be with our elected officials in their heavy responsibilities, granting them wisdom, strength and compassion in their deliberations. Rule their hearts and minds, that they may faithfully serve the people of New York and the United States.
Today we honor the soldiers, families and civilians of the 10th Mountain Division, past and present, proudly living in New York, willingly facing the dangers and challenges of service to our nation in times of war and peace.
Inspire our soldiers, men and women who do not seek fame or fortune but who serve because they value a life lived in liberty and freedom. We humbly ask this day, protect our deployed soldiers, strengthen our families, empower our resolve in defending the ideals that we serve to preserve for all generations. And grant us victory in our endeavors.
So help us, Lord, to stay thankful for the many blessings that we enjoy and for the immeasurable support and encouragement of New York State and our nation's people as we lift up all who serve our nation, bright stars of freedom for the entire world to see.
Hear our prayer, O Lord, for we ask this in Your most holy presence.
Amen.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The reading of the Journal.
The Secretary will read.
THE SECRETARY:In Senate, Sunday, May 19th, the Senate met pursuant to adjournment. The Journal of Saturday, May 18th, was read and approved. On motion, Senate adjourned.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Without objection, the Journal stands approved as read.
Presentation of petitions.
Messages from the Assembly.
The Secretary will read.
THE SECRETARY:On page 34, Senator Gallivan moves to discharge, from the Committee on Finance, Assembly Bill Number 4105 and substitute it for the identical Senate Bill Number 3180, Third Reading Calendar 524.
And on page 35, Senator Golden moves to discharge, from the Committee on Civil Service and Pensions, Assembly Bill Number 4982 and substitute it for the identical Senate Bill Number 4755, Third Reading Calendar 532.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Substitutions ordered.
Messages from the Governor.
Reports of standing committees.
Reports of select committees.
Communications and reports from state officers.
Motions and resolutions.
Senator Libous.
SENATOR LIBOUS:Thank you, Mr. President. I've got a little bit of a cold, so my voice has changed.
I believe there's a privileged resolution at the desk by Senator Ritchie. It's Number 1830. May we have the resolution read in its entirety and then, after the resolution is read, call on Senator Skelos and then on Senator Ritchie.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The Secretary will read.
THE SECRETARY:Legislative Resolution Number 1830, by Senator Ritchie, memorializing Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim May 20, 2013, as 10th Mountain Division and Fort Drum Day in the State of New York.
"WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to support and promote the historic and significant achievements of Fort Drum and the United States Army 10th Mountain Division; and
"WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim May 20, 2013, as 10th Mountain Division and Fort Drum Day in the State of New York; and
"WHEREAS, Fort Drum is the largest United States Army post in the Northeastern United States, with 19,987 soldiers and 4,614 civilian workers; and
"WHEREAS, Fort Drum is the largest employer in Northern New York, with an economic impact on the North Country and the State of New York of $1.6 billion; and
"WHEREAS, Fort Drum traces its roots to 1907, when the post was known as Camp Hughes, after New York Governor Charles Hughes. It was later known as Pine Camp. Then in 1951, it was named Camp Drum in honor of Lieutenant General Hugh A. Drum, who commanded the First Army during World War II. Eventually, in 1974, it was designated as Fort Drum; and
"WHEREAS, The 10th Mountain Division, which earned special honor during World War II, fighting in the mountains of Italy in some of the roughest terrain in the country, and which was renowned for its expertise in mountain and winter warfare, was reactivated at Fort Drum in 1985, as a rapid deployment combat light infantry unit, dispatched to trouble spots around the globe; and
"WHEREAS, Fort Drum continues to be home to the United States Army 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry), which includes the most deployed combat brigade in the United States Army, with deployments to Operation Desert Storm, Saudi Arabia; Operation Restore Hope and Operation Continue Hope, Somalia; Operation Uphold Democracy, Haiti; Operation Joint Forge (Bosnia and Herzegovina); and Operation Joint Guardian, Kosovo; as well as hurricane relief efforts inside the United States; and
"WHEREAS, The 10th Mountain Division's three combat brigades at Fort Drum have seen numerous deployments to both Iraq and Afghanistan in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, in fighting the nation's ongoing war against terrorism since September 11, 2001; and
"WHEREAS, Fort Drum and the 10th Mountain Division are commanded by Major General Stephen J. Townsend and a dedicated cadre of officers whose commitment to our nation and our troops is exemplary; and
"WHEREAS, The 10th Mountain Division, throughout its operational history, has been awarded six campaign streamers, including two in World War II and four in the War on Terrorism, as well as two unit decorations; and
"WHEREAS, Recipients of the nation's highest military honor for valor, the Medal of Honor, include two members of the 10th Mountain division: Pfc. John D. Magrath, for his actions at Castel d'Aiano, Italy, during World War II, and Sfc. Jared Monti, who received the honor posthumously in 2009, for his heroism in Kunar Province, Afghanistan, as part of Operation Enduring Freedom, and who is one of just six Medal of Honor recipients since 2001, the start of the global war on terrorism; and
"WHEREAS, Thousands of New York men and women have passed through Fort Drum as members of our armed forces, the Army, National Guard and Reserves, showing service, dedication, sacrifice, and commitment and living up to the 10th Mountain Division motto 'Climb to Glory'; now, therefore, be it
"RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim May 20, 2013, as 10th Mountain Division and Fort Drum Day in the State of New York; and be it further
"RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to the Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of New York; the Honorable John McHugh, Secretary of the Army; and Major General Stephen J. Townsend, Commanding General of Fort Drum and the 10th Mountain Division."
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Senator Skelos on the resolution.
SENATOR SKELOS:Thank you very much, Mr. President.
We're truly honored today to have the commanding general of the 10th Mountain Division, Major General Stephen Townsend, with us, and some of his colleagues from Fort Drum.
I want to thank Senator Ritchie for making this day possible, sponsoring it and putting all the efforts that's necessary to make sure that it is a success.
The 10th Mountain Division has an incredible history of defending our country and fighting for freedom around the world since its first combat deployment in Italy in 1945. The division also has a strong history of humanitarian missions in places like Bosnia, Haiti, and Somalia, and even here in the United States. There are still hundreds of members of the 10th Mountain Division serving in Afghanistan, and we look forward to their early return.
General Townsend, your presence here reminds us how lucky we are as Americans to have brave young men and women dedicating their lives and sometimes giving their lives to protect our country and our freedoms, and how lucky we are as New Yorkers to have Fort Drum located in our state. You have an enormous impact on the economy of the North Country, but even more important, you provide all of us with inspiration.
We appreciate your service. We want everyone serving at Fort Drum to know how proud we are of them. And we thank you for joining us here today.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Thank you, Senator Skelos.
Senator Ritchie on the resolution.
SENATOR RITCHIE:Thank you, Mr. President.
I am honored to welcome Major General Stephen Townsend and the officers and soldiers of the 10th Mountain Division and Fort Drum to the Senate today.
I want to thank Chaplain Lieutenant Colonel John Kallerson for his invocation, and also the Color Guard for their presentation.
The 10th Mountain Division is the most deployed combat division. The men and women of the 10th Mountain Division have served in trouble spots around the globe. In fact, right now hundreds of 10th Mountain Division soldiers are serving in Afghanistan, helping to spread and defend freedom. And because they are based at Fort Drum, in my district in Jefferson County, the 10th Mountain Division is New York's division as well.
I want to thank General Townsend for bringing with him today some representatives of the 10th Mountain Division who represent hundreds of native New Yorkers who serve there. I ask them to stand so we can recognize them for their service.
Captain Richard Loveless, who is from Weedsport. Staff Sergeant Michael Housk, who is from Derby. Specialist Brian Menard, who is from Utica. Private First Class Scott Haughney, who is from Massapequa Park.
And there is one more, Lieutenant Colonel Jason Lewallen, who is actually from Texas. But because he spent time at West Point, I think we can consider him a constituent of Colonel Bill Larkin.
Every day I meet soldiers at the gas station, the supermarket, and at school because they are part of the community that I represent: 38,000 soldiers and their families who have made an extraordinary choice to be part of America's Army, to make a stand for freedom.
And I am proud, General, to share their story of Fort Drum with my colleagues from across the state so that the members of the Senate and the state government can meet and see some of the men and women who defend us.
Colonel Larkin reminds us nearly every day how important it is to say thank you for those who wear the uniform. So in May we celebrate, as a nation, Military Appreciation Month. Tomorrow here in the Senate we will honor veterans from across New York State who have served with distinction both in the military and in civilian careers. And seven days from now we will pause to remember all those who never made it back, including too many members of the 10th Mountain Division.
Today we applaud the solders and officers of the 10th Mountain Division and Fort Drum. We recognize your achievements, we pledge our continuing support, and we say thank you for your service.
Thank you, Mr. President.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Thank you, Senator Ritchie.
Senator Skelos.
SENATOR SKELOS:Thank you very much, Mr. President.
I'd like to ask for unanimous consent for General Townsend now to address the Senate.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:If Major General Stephen Townsend would come forward at this time and address the New York State Senate.
MAJOR GENERAL TOWNSEND:Well, good afternoon.
(No response.)
MAJOR GENERAL TOWNSEND:Tough crowd.
(Laughter.)
MAJOR GENERAL TOWNSEND:Good afternoon.
(Loud response from the assemblage.)
MAJOR GENERAL TOWNSEND:Climb to glory.
This is a first for me, addressing such a body, but I looked forward to it.
Senator Skelos and Senator Klein, Senator Stewart-Cousins and all the members assembled here today, first let me express my appreciation to all of you for this opportunity to highlight New York's own 10th Mountain Division and Fort Drum from the North Country.
To Senator Ritchie and her staff, thanks for all your diligent efforts in making this day possible two years running now.
To the veterans assembled here, and in particular let me point out -- I just met him today -- Colonel Larkin, for his own service dating back to World War II in the Pacific. To all the veterans in the chamber, thank you for your service and your support, the support that you show to this new greatest generation serving our nation and protecting her.
To the friends and family members and supporters of the 10th Mountain Division and Fort Drum, without you what we ask our soldiers to do would be infinitely much more difficult.
I'll make three brief points today. First, your 10th Mountain Division and Fort Drum are still very much a part of our nation's effort in Afghanistan. Second, we have America's finest sons and daughters serving up there in the North Country, and I've brought a few of them with me today that you've just been introduced to. And third is the importance of Fort Drum and the 10th Mountain Division to the State of New York.
As my predecessor, General Mark Milley, now leading our troops in Afghanistan, recounted from this podium last year, the 10th Mountain Division was born in the early years of World War II. They conducted part of their training here in New York, in the mountains, and in New England before playing a pivotal role in the Allied victory in Italy. In 1985 the division was reactivated in Fort Drum to provide a special rapid deployment capability for our nation.
Fort Drum was significantly expanded and specially designed to project the nation's power across the globe, and we stand ready to do that today. As you all know, since reactivation the 10th Mountain Division remains among the most deployed divisions if not the most deployed division in the United States Army.
Our tempo at Fort Drum has always been high. Last year two brigades returned from Afghanistan while we were preparing three other brigades for deployment. Also last year, Fort Drum was called upon to provide relief support here at home after the devastation of Hurricane Sandy. Through all of this, our division headquarters was on standby alert to deploy anywhere in the world. Today, your 10th Mountain Division stands ready to deploy anywhere in the world in support of our nation's interests abroad.
In 2001, the 10th Mountain Division provided the first general-purpose ground combat forces in Afghanistan, in response to the attacks of September 11th. It's probably fitting, then, that our division should be one of the last to go to Afghanistan as well. With the completion of Operation Iraqi Freedom and the draw-down of forces in Afghanistan, this will mean a reduction in operational tempo and deployments for many units and installations across America -- but not for your 10th Mountain Division, not for your Fort Drum.
Today we have two infantry brigades and our aviation brigade in Afghanistan, over 5,000 troops. We are preparing our third and fourth brigades for deployment in the coming months. And by early next year, we expect my division headquarters and our sustainment brigade to deploy again as well. So all of the units on Fort Drum in 2013 and 2014 in Afghanistan.
So when you hear people say that our nation is drawing down in Afghanistan and our Army is returning to our its garrisons, I want you to tell them that's true, but not New York's 10th Mountain Division and not New York's Fort Drum. We'll continue to be there in Afghanistan through 2014.
The best of America's youth serve at Fort Drum. The soldiers of your 10th Mountain division are very well trained, they're very motivated, they're very well led by some of the most experienced junior and mid-level leaders our Army has ever seen.
I've brought with me today four soldiers from the 10th Mountain Division, citizens of the State of New York. I guess we're all citizens of the State of New York today. I've got a bunch here in the back with the Color Guard, but you were introduced to the four right up front here.
Captain Richard Loveless is an artillery officer from Weedsport; eight years of service, two combat deployments. Staff Sergeant Michael Housk is an intel sergeant from Derby; eight years of service, one combat deployment. Specialist Brian Menard is an ammunition specialist from Utica. He's two combat deployments, he's got about a year in the Army but four prior years in the Marine Corps. His Marine Corps service is proof that the Army is an equal opportunity employer.
(Laughter.)
MAJOR GENERAL TOWNSEND:And Pfc Scott Haughney, a medic with about one year of service, from Massapequa Park.
I hope you get a chance to talk to all of these soldiers right after this proceeding. You should be very proud of them. I know I am.
The 10th Mountain Division is proud to be part of what makes the North Country a great place to live, and we're fortunate to receive fantastic support from our North Country neighbors.
Last year the direct economic impact of the 10th Mountain Division and Fort Drum exceeded $1.4 billion. The real economic impact is probably in the neighborhood of $2.1 billion to $2.3 billion. Fort Drum employs almost 5,000 civilians and is the region's largest employer.
The infrastructure improvements around Fort Drum and on Fort Drum are unparalleled. The Army's cooperation with our schools, environmental conservation, and healthcare providers is unique to Fort Drum and in our Army. Fort Drum has now been recognized by the Army for four years running as an Army Community of Excellence. That's in large part a credit to our neighbors in Northern New York who truly make Fort Drum a home rather than just a place to be assigned to. We all know that what's good for Fort Drum is good for New York.
Today, in the era of increasing austerity, none of us can take the existence of Fort Drum for granted. In response to national decisions, our Army is downsizing and planning to cut between eight and 12 brigades from our end strength. With only 11 divisions in our Army, it's almost certain that at least one brigade will come from our 10th Mountain Division.
If sequestration remains in effect, it may force the Army to reduce as many as twice as many brigades than currently planned. If this happens, we could expect the Army to lose some divisions as well. We ask for your continued support to your 10th Mountain Division and your Fort Drum.
Distinguished Senators, ladies and gentlemen, thank you for this opportunity to address you today. We're proud that you've made May 20, 2013, 10th Mountain Division and Fort Drum Day here in New York.
I'd ask you to please remember and say a prayer for America's sons and daughters who are deployed in harm's way as you enjoy your upcoming Memorial Day.
Thank you. Climb to glory.
(Standing ovation.)
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Thank you very much, General, for those remarks.
And a very special welcome to all of the members of the 10th Mountain Division from Fort Drum who are with us today.
The question is on the resolution. All in favor signify by saying aye.
(Response of "Aye.")
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Opposed, nay.
(No response.)
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The resolution is adopted.
Senator Libous.
SENATOR LIBOUS:Thank you, Mr. President.
And Senator Ritchie would like to open the resolution up to the entire chamber. So as our policy goes, all members will be placed on it. If for some reason you choose not to be on the resolution, let the desk know.
And then, Mr. President, if we could stand at ease for about five minutes so that the members of the house could meet our honored guests.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The resolution is open for cosponsorship. If anyone chooses not to be on the resolution, they should notify the desk.
And the Senate will now stand at ease for about five minutes.
(Whereupon, the Senate stood at ease at 3:25 p.m.)
(Whereupon, the Senate reconvened at 3:35 p.m.)
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Senator Libous.
SENATOR LIBOUS:Thank you, Mr. President.
I brought Mickey Mouse to the chamber with me today, for those of you who are wondering. It's supposed to be a joke.
(Laughter.)
SENATOR LIBOUS:At this time I think what we'd like to do is, under motions and resolutions, there's a resolution at the desk by Senator DeFrancisco, Number 661. It was previously adopted by the house on March 7th.
May we have the title read and call on Senator DeFrancisco.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The Secretary will read the title.
THE SECRETARY:Legislative Resolution Number 661, by Senator DeFrancisco, honoring Michael Brussel on winning honorable mention in the Elks Area 1 National Soccer Shoot-Out contest.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Senator DeFrancisco on the previously adopted resolution.
SENATOR DeFRANCISCO: Yes, this resolution was adopted on March 7th, but we were able to have the family come so that Michael could be suitably honored.
We have many individuals who do extremely well in various sports in Central New York, and Michael is one of them. He was in the under-14 division of the National Soccer Shoot-Out contest, and he did extremely well.
But more importantly, he's a good student. And he's at Durgee Junior High School; correct? All right. All A's; correct? Well, if they're not, they will be sooner or later.
So we wanted to honor him today for his outstanding national competition and how high he was able to achieve in that national competition, and to honor his great work in school and throughout the community.
So with that said, Michael is here with his parents, Andy and Lynn; his brother, James; his sister, Carolyn -- how come they're not in school today? They're missing school today. I guess this is a good reason to miss school -- and grandparents Bob and Peg Brussel.
So congratulations, Michael.
(Applause.)
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Congratulations, Michael. Welcome to you and your family to the State Capitol.
Senator Libous.
SENATOR LIBOUS:Thank you, Mr. President.
At this time could you call on Senator Kennedy for the purposes of recognition of a group.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Senator Kennedy.
SENATOR KENNEDY:Thank you very much, Mr. President.
I'd just like to take this opportunity to introduce a group of women that are here today all the way from Buffalo. If you could stand up.
In the chambers we have a group that came here, they're from a new organization called Women Elect that's focused on getting women engaged in the government process and really civic duty to the community. The people that have joined us here today are Diana Cihak, Amber Small, Heather Jasen, Melanie Shorey, Cait Kennedy, and Erin Codey.
Their goal is to get women involved in government, but ultimately to increase the amount of women engaged in the political process and into elected office. So I wanted to take this opportunity to recognize them. They've had a wonderful day.
Women Elect is a nonpartisan organization, so they fit right in here in the New York State Senate, us being a nonpartisan crowd.
So thank you, Mr. President. If you could give them the honor of the house.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Thank you, Senator Kennedy.
And a very special welcome to our guests from Buffalo. Enjoy your day here at the State Capitol. Thank you.
(Applause.)
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Senator Libous.
SENATOR LIBOUS:Thank you, Mr. President.
Can we call on Senator Gianaris for a motion, please.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Senator Gianaris.
SENATOR GIANARIS:Thank you, Mr. President.
On behalf of Senator Parker, on page number 35 I offer the following amendments to Calendar Number 535, Senate Print Number 1615, and ask that said bill retain its place on Third Reading Calendar.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The amendments are received, and the bill will retain its place on the Third Reading Calendar.
Senator Libous.
SENATOR LIBOUS:Mr. President, would you also call on Senator Carlucci at this time.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Senator Carlucci.
SENATOR CARLUCCI:Thank you, Mr. President.
I wish to call up, on behalf of Senator Klein, Bill Number 2369, recalled from the Assembly, which is now at the desk.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The Secretary will read.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 326, by Senator Klein, Senate Print 2369, an act to amend the Local Finance Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Senator Carlucci.
SENATOR CARLUCCI:Mr. President, I now move to reconsider the vote by which this bill was passed.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Call the roll on reconsideration.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 60.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Senator Carlucci.
SENATOR CARLUCCI:Mr. President, I now offer the following amendments.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The amendments are received.
Senator Libous.
SENATOR LIBOUS:Thank you, Mr. President.
I have a number of motions, so if the house would bear with me.
On behalf of Senator Martins, I wish to call up his bill, Print Number 4681, recalled from the Assembly, which is now at the desk.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The Secretary will read.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 514, by Senator Martins, Senate Print 4681, an act to amend the Highway Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Senator Libous.
SENATOR LIBOUS:Thank you, Mr. President. I now move to reconsider the vote by which this bill was passed.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The Secretary will call the roll on reconsideration.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 60.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Senator Libous.
SENATOR LIBOUS:I offer up the following amendments.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The amendments are received.
Senator Libous.
SENATOR LIBOUS:Mr. President, on behalf of Senator Zeldin, I wish to call up his bill, Senate Print Number 2925A, recalled from the Assembly, which is now at the desk.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The Secretary will read.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 327, by Senator Zeldin, Senate Print 2925A, an act to authorize.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Senator Libous.
SENATOR LIBOUS:Mr. President, I move to reconsider the vote by which this bill was passed.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The Secretary will call the roll on reconsideration.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 60.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Senator Libous.
SENATOR LIBOUS:Mr. President, I offer up the following amendments.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The amendments are received.
Senator Libous.
SENATOR LIBOUS:Mr. President, on behalf of Senator Boyle, I wish to call up his bill, Senate Print Number 4367, recalled from the Assembly, which is now at the desk.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The Secretary will read.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 466, by Senator Boyle, Senate Print 4367, an act to amend the Environmental Conservation Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Senator Libous.
SENATOR LIBOUS:Thank you, Mr. President. I now move to reconsider the vote by which this bill was passed.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The Secretary will call the roll on reconsideration.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 60.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Senator Libous.
SENATOR LIBOUS:Mr. President, I offer up the following amendments.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The amendments are received.
Senator Libous.
SENATOR LIBOUS:Mr. President, again on behalf of Senator Zeldin, I call up Senate Print 4132, recalled from the Assembly, which is now at the desk.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The Secretary will read.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 490, by Senator Zeldin, Senate Print 4132, an act authorizing.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Senator Libous.
SENATOR LIBOUS:Mr. President, I now move to reconsider the vote by which this bill was passed.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The Secretary will call the roll on reconsideration.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 60.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Senator Libous.
SENATOR LIBOUS:Mr. President, I offer up the following amendments.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Those amendments are received.
SENATOR LIBOUS:Okay. Mr. President, on behalf of Senator DeFrancisco, I move that the following bill be discharged from its respective committee and be recommitted with instructions to strike the enacting clause. And that would be Senate Print 4854.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:So ordered.
SENATOR LIBOUS:Thank you, Mr. President.
Mr. President, I'd like to offer up amendments to the following Third Reading Calendar bills.
On behalf of Senator Nozzolio, page 11, Calendar Number 47, Senate Print 1895.
On behalf of Senator Seward, page 13, Calendar Number 146, Senate Print 3084.
On behalf of Senator Ranzenhofer, page 17, Calendar Number 223, Senate Print 3755.
On behalf of Senator Zeldin, on page 19, Calendar Number 286, Senate Print 3823A.
On behalf of Senator Maziarz, page 19, Calendar Number 303, Senate Print 1081.
On behalf of Senator Marchione, page 29, Calendar Number 471, Senate Print 4553.
And on behalf of Senator Marcellino, page 30, Calendar Number 483, Senate Print 3812.
Mr. President, I move that these bills retain their place on the order of third reading.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:All of those amendments are received, and said bills will retain their place on the Third Reading Calendar.
Senator Libous.
SENATOR LIBOUS:Mr. President, at this time could we have the reading of the noncontroversial calendar.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The Secretary will proceed with the reading of the noncontroversial calendar.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 99, by Senator Maziarz, Senate Print 1186A, an act to amend the Energy Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 3. This act shall take effect immediately.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 60.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 118, by Senator DeFrancisco, Senate Print 337, an act to amend the Penal Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 60.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 168, by Senator Martins, Senate Print 3661A, an act to amend the Real Property Tax Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 60.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 169, by Senator Martins, Senate Print 3708, an act to amend the Real Property Tax Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 60.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 189, by Senator Maziarz, Senate Print 1079A, an act to amend the Penal Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 2. This act shall take effect on the first of November.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 59. Nays, 1. Senator Montgomery recorded in the negative.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 222, by Senator Flanagan, Senate Print 1443, an act to amend the Public Authorities Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 60.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 235, by Senator Nozzolio, Senate Print 3593B, an act to amend the Village Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 3. This act shall take effect immediately.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 59. Nays, 1. Senator Ball recorded in the negative.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The bill is passed.
Calendar Number 303 was amended earlier today and therefore is not live.
The Secretary will continue to read.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 311, by Senator Seward, Senate Print 3051, an act to amend the State Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 60.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 313, by Senator Seward, Senate Print 3949, an act to amend the Public Officers Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 59. Nays, 1. Senator Ball recorded in the negative.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 324, by Senator Grisanti, Senate Print 1710, an act to amend the Real Property Tax Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 2. This act shall take effect on the 120th day.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Senator Grisanti to explain his vote.
SENATOR GRISANTI:Yes, thank you, Mr. President.
My fellow colleagues, this legislation passed last year. And if you want to talk about a piece of green legislation, you can't get any greener than having localities be able to have exemptions for green development homes.
Could you imagine having a home that has no electric bill or no gas bill? That's what this does. That's what's being developed right now by Natale Builders in Western New York. They have these divisions. They use geothermal technology, they use solar, they use wind.
And what this legislation does is it allows local governments to grant a 35 percent reduction in the property taxes for a period of years in order to facilitate growth for green home legislation.
A lot of specifics. It relies on protection of high-value vegetation, improving the soil, rain barrels with the downspouts. Recyclable-content building materials must be used. Built-in recycling collection space, renewable energy sources per house, Energy Star rated at 3.0 or higher.
So I urge all of my colleagues to join onto this bill and tell their counterparts in the Assembly to join on it as well. We can use these renewable resources to move forward in our production of green homes in the future.
Mr. President, I vote aye.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Senator Grisanti to be recorded in the affirmative.
Announce the results.
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 60.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 332, by Senator Lanza, Senate Print 4146, an act to amend Chapter 306 of the Laws of 2011.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 60.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 350, by Senator Ball, Senate Print 2655A, an act to amend the Military Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 3. This act shall take effect immediately.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
THE SECRETARY:In relation to Calendar Number 350: Ayes, 58. Nays, 3. Senators Gianaris, Parker and Rivera recorded in the negative.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 353, by Senator Ranzenhofer, Senate Print 4287, an act to amend the Private Housing Finance Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 2. This act shall take effect on the 30th day.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 60.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 384, by Senator Grisanti, Senate Print 1721B, an act to amend the Penal Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 25. This act shall take effect on the 60th day.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 60. Nays, 1. Senator Montgomery recorded in the negative.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 399, by Senator Ranzenhofer, Senate Print 1695A, an act to amend the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 4. This act shall take effect on the first of January.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 59. Nays, 2. Senators Montgomery and Parker recorded in the negative.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 415, by Senator Marcellino, Senate Print 2526, an act to amend the Executive Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 2. This act shall take effect April 1, 2014.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 61.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 432, by Senator Ranzenhofer, Senate Print 2345A, an act in relation to alienation.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:There is a home-rule message at the desk.
Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 7. This act shall take effect immediately.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 61.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 438, by Senator Young, Senate Print 4400, an act to amend Chapter 514 of the Laws of 1983.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 7. This act shall take effect immediately.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 61.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 472, by Senator Young, Senate Print 4578, an act to amend Chapter 321 of the Laws of 2011.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 58. Nays, 3. Senators Espaillat, Perkins and Serrano recorded in the negative.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 495, by Senator Gallivan, Senate Print 4364, an act to amend the Local Finance Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:There is a home-rule message at the desk.
Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 60. Nays, 1. Senator Ball recorded in the negative.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 501, by Senator Grisanti, Senate Print 1599, an act to amend the Highway Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 3. This act shall take effect immediately.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 61.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 503, by Senator LaValle, Senate Print 2037, an act to amend the Highway Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 4. This act shall take effect immediately.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 60. Nays, 1. Senator Avella recorded in the negative.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 504, by Senator Maziarz, Senate Print 2063, an act to amend the Highway Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 3. This act shall take effect immediately.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 61.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 505, by Senator Valesky, Senate Print 2349A, an act to amend the Highway Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 3. This act shall take effect immediately.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 61.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 509, by Senator Seward, Senate Print 3765, an act to amend the Highway Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 3. This act shall take effect immediately.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 61.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 510, by Senator Ranzenhofer, Senate Print 3795, an act to amend the Highway Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 3. This act shall take effect immediately.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 62.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 511, by Senator Libous, Senate Print 4360A, an act to amend the Highway Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 3. This act shall take effect immediately.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 62.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 513, by Senator Young, Senate Print 4592, an act to amend the Highway Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 3. This act shall take effect immediately.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 62.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 522, by Senator Valesky, Senate Print 2147, an act to authorize.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 61. Nays, 1. Senator Espaillat recorded in the negative.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 524, substituted earlier by Member of the Assembly Aubry, Assembly Print Number 4105, an act to amend Chapter 29 of the Laws of 2011.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 62.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 530, by Senator Libous, Senate Print 3785A, an act to amend the Retirement and Social Security Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 62.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 532, substituted earlier by Member of the Assembly Brook-Krasny, Assembly Print 4982, an act to amend the Education Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 62.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The bill is passed.
Calendar Number 535 was amended earlier today and therefore is not live.
The Secretary will continue to read.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 536, by Senator Golden, Senate Print 2096, an act to amend the Public Authorities Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 62.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 538, by Senator Hannon, Senate Print 3841, an act to amend Chapter 154 of the Laws of 1921.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 2. This act shall take effect upon the enactment into law by the State of New Jersey.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 62.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 540, by Senator Ranzenhofer, Senate Print 4323, an act to amend the Not-For-Profit Corporation Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 3. This act shall take effect on the first of April.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 62.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 541, by Senator Ranzenhofer, Senate Print 4324, an act to amend the Not-For-Profit Corporation Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 4. This act shall take effect immediately.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 62.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 545, by Senator Nozzolio, Senate Print 4603, an act to amend the Not-For-Profit Corporation Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 62.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 546, by Senator Libous, Senate Print 978, an act to amend the State Finance Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 4. This act shall take effect on the first of April.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 61. Nays, 1. Senator Espaillat recorded in the negative.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 549, by Senator Grisanti, Senate Print 1720, an act to amend the Tax Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 2. This act shall take effect on the first of April.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Senator Krueger to explain her vote.
SENATOR KRUEGER:Thank you, Mr. President. I rise to explain my vote no on this bill.
I do understand the complications of the fact that we originally passed a cellphone tax bill in order to ensure there was money available for expansion and statewide coverage of emergency service. And we have failed to meet that challenge.
And so I'd like to be able to vote for the bill. The problem is I also have problems with this bill.
For one, it does not include in all cellphones. In the original bill we exempted prepaid cellphones or limited-minutes loaded phones. It is long past the innovation period in cellphones. They should all be covered by the same tax, and this bill would not address that.
Second, this bill would distribute the money to localities, but it doesn't explicitly require that it goes to ensuring coverage of emergency service throughout the localities. So in my opinion this bill should actually lay out exactly what the money would be used for and where.
And third, this bill has an estimated cost of $190 million currently within our budget being used for A, B, and C that would then be shifted to these new priorities for this money. I don't necessarily disagree with ensuring that taxes from cellphones go to emergency service phone systems, but I don't understand how we could vote this through in the middle of a fiscal year without explaining what we were going to give up in the existing budget because we would be reprogramming $190 million of our revenues.
So for those three reasons, I cannot vote yes on this bill and will vote no.
Thank you, Mr. President.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Senator Krueger to be recorded in the negative.
Senator Grisanti to explain his vote.
SENATOR GRISANTI:Yes, thank you, Mr. President.
And thank you, Senator Krueger, because I understand each and every one of those concerns that you have.
What you have to understand is back in 1991 -- first of all, I wasn't here when that was passed, the 70-cent surcharge on cellphone bills. But at that time period, only 1 percent of the phones were the prepaid phones or the phones that had the limited minutes. So that's why those were exempt at that period of time.
But a 2002 audit -- and at the same time, limited phones, prepaid, were not that big even in 2002. A 2002 audit identified and criticized the State Police because they were spending the funds on dry cleaning, conferences, pens, decals, garbage removal and other miscellaneous items unrelated to 911 calls. So the center was not doing things properly.
One-point-two billion dollars in surcharges, $1.2 billion in surcharges collected since 1994. As of last year, $19 million collected last year; only $9 million went to the county governments for upgrading. That's something that's got to change.
So I understand what Senator Krueger is saying. What I want to do first is take care of the inequities in the initial law and then later on do the additions. Because if we do the additions now, it's just going to be an additional tax on those prepaid phones and on those limited phones, which are actually used by people that can't afford those increased costs anyway.
So removing the discretion from the state in deciding how wireless surcharge funds should be allocated will ensure that local governments -- and you'll see it's backed by municipalities and counties all across this great state of ours -- that the 911 call centers ensure counties are not forced to raise their property taxes and sales taxes and they can rely on this funding in the future.
I understand we have to look at where it's going to come from. Why not do it in the budget. We'll pass it in the Senate, hopefully. If the Assembly does not pass it, we could look for it next year.
But this is something that every one of us in our districts needs that money to go back to the 911 call centers. So I urge my colleagues to all vote yes and, if it doesn't go through by the Assembly, we work on it next year to get it into the budget to make sure we correct these inequities.
I vote aye, Mr. President. Thank you.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Senator Grisanti to be recorded in the affirmative.
Announce the results.
THE SECRETARY:In relation to Calendar 549, those recorded in the negative are Senators Avella, Ball, Dilan, Gianaris, Hoylman, Krueger, Parker, Perkins, Rivera, Sanders, Serrano and Stavisky. Also Senator Espaillat.
Ayes, 49. Nays, 13.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 551, by Senator Valesky, Senate Print 2152, an act to amend the Agriculture and Markets Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 3. This act shall take effect immediately.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 61. Nays, 1. Senator Espaillat recorded in the negative.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:The bill is passed.
Senator Marcellino, that completes the reading of the noncontroversial calendar.
SENATOR MARCELLINO:Thank you, Mr. President.
Is there any further business at the desk?
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:There is no further business at the desk.
SENATOR MARCELLINO:There being no further business, Mr. President, I move we adjourn until Tuesday, May 21st, at 3:00 p.m.
ACTING PRESIDENT VALESKY:On motion, the Senate stands adjourned until Tuesday, May 21st, at 3:00 p.m.
(Whereupon, at 4:11 p.m., the Senate adjourned.)
Highest impact first.
Not yet analyzed. Open the bill for its official title.
Not yet analyzed. Open the bill for its official title.
Not yet analyzed. Open the bill for its official title.
Not yet analyzed. Open the bill for its official title.
Not yet analyzed. Open the bill for its official title.
Not yet analyzed. Open the bill for its official title.
Not yet analyzed. Open the bill for its official title.
Not yet analyzed. Open the bill for its official title.
Not yet analyzed. Open the bill for its official title.