ALBANY, 06/08/09 -- New rules were adopted to reform the operation of the senate to ensure that legislative and administrative processes are more fair, equitable and democratic.

Under the new senate rules adopted today, more power is given to individual members; the committee process has been strengthened; greater debate and consideration of legislation will be allowed and resources among the members of both majority and minority parties will be equalized.

“These new rules will mean all residents across the state will truly be represented in Albany,” Senator Seward said.   “Each senator will have the ability to bring constituent concerns to the floor, and at the end of the day the interests of all will be fairly represented.”