Michael Gianaris's posts related to Government Operations

The Times Ledger wrote about U.S. Treasurer Rios' visit to Astoria to note the impact of the initiatives the Obama administration is taking towards the nation's economic recovery. Senator Gianaris commended the usage of the local bank's federal grant to support the small businesses in Queens.

U.S. Treasurer Rosa “Rosie” Gumataotao Rios and U.S. Rep. Joseph Crowley (D-Jackson Heights) visited Astoria’s Alma Bank to tout a $19 million grant the bank received from the federal government to lend to small businesses near its locations throughout the city and in New Jersey.

“We’re pleased to see Alma Bank putting that capital to work right here in Queens,” Rios said.

 [...]

Yournabe.com wrote about the issue of gerrymandering within the GOP. This only furthers the argument for an independing redistricting process, away from partisan temptations to gain majority through unfair means.

Republicans in the state Senate are reportedly thinking of adding an extra seat in the upper chamber when the redrawing of district lines are conducted next year.

[...]

Sens. Toby Stavisky (D-Whitestone) and Michael Gianaris (D-Astoria) said they had “heard rumors” that Republicans were in fact looking to add an extra seat.

[...]

The Capitol wrote about the pressing issue of independent restricting being on Governnor Cuomo's agenda for the potential Legislature in Albany that will meet to discuss the state budget. Passing independent redistricting is at the top of the list of things we need to take care of.

If Gov. Andrew Cuomo calls the Legislature back to Albany this year to deal with a $350 million budget shortfall, lawmakers say he could also open the door to debating a host of simmering issues – including independent redistricting.

The next legislative session begins in less than two months, but Cuomo told radio host Susan Arbetter yesterday that the budget gap could force his hand: “If this trend continues, we may have to bring back the Legislature.”

[...]