Paterson orders gridlocked N.Y. Senate to meet
Unsatisfied with New York senators' efforts to resolve their paralyzing power dispute, Gov. David Paterson is ordering a special session beginning Tuesday. Paterson says his order could compel senators
•
Jun 21, 2009, 10:57 PM
•
Updated 5,601 days ago
Share:
Unsatisfied with New York senators' efforts to resolve their paralyzing power dispute, Gov. David Paterson is ordering a special session beginning Tuesday.
Paterson says his order could compel senators to stay in Albany every day, including weekends and the July 4 holiday, until they take up unfinished business.
Although a governor can order a special session and set the agenda of bills to be considered, lawmakers can't be forced to vote on or debate those bills.
"The senators conduct has been laughable, but what's going on around here is no joke and I don't find it funny," Paterson says.
The governor also offered senators two well-respected former politicians to act as mediators on Monday, but held out little hope that would avoid the need for a special session.
Most Long Islanders News 12 spoke with say they applaud the governor's order because the power struggle between politicians in Albany is hurting the people who elected them into office.
"I think somebody ought to scold them. I think somebody ought to give them a time out and put them all in a corner because all they're doing is wasting my money," says Alice Corsello, of Syosset.
The leadership dispute has gridlocked the state Senate since June 8.
AP wire services were used in this report.
More from News 12
1:59
William Floyd School Board holds emergency closed door meeting following student gun arrest
1:38
Very warm temps continue for another day; more seasonable weather returns Wednesday night
2:18
Massapequa homeowners concerned about reimbursements from PSEG after power surge
0:27
Police: Bethpage man assaulted firefighter assessing damage to his home following crash
2:00
Authorities warn thrill-seekers to stay away from former Kings Park Psychiatric Center
1:35
