Statement from Senator Hiram Monserrate

Albany, NY - Over these last two days I have been meeting with other reform minded Democrats in the Senate to join our new, reform coalition government.  I’ve been encourages by the response I received.  The members I have been speaking to have asked for continued meetings so that we can discuss the expansion of the coalition.

 The important work we must do going forward can be achieved with additional members of our reform coalition.

 The session that was scheduled today includes a number of important bills to help people across the state.  I have asked Senator Espada and Senator Skelos to hold today’s session tomorrow.  This will give me an opportunity, as well as others, to continue the discussions that I believe will build our coalition.

 The reforms that are necessary in this state must be undertaken in constructive fashion and I will be calling on both sides to participate in our democracy.

 But we cannot afford to delay the important work ahead of us.  Therefore, I and our new reform coalition government will meet tomorrow to take up the legislation originally scheduled for today and to continue over the next few days and weeks to address legislation and issues that are important to all of our constituents.

####