ALBANY – State Senator Brad Hoylman (D, WF-Manhattan), the only openly LGBT member of the New York State Senate and Ranking Member on the Senate Judiciary Committee, released the following statement congratulating Judge Paul Feinman on his swearing in as the first openly LGBT judge on the Court of Appeals, New York State’s highest court.

“I'm ecstatic that Judge Paul Feinman has been sworn in as the newest judge and first openly LGBT person on New York State Court of Appeals. Today’s swearing in of the first gay man on the Court of Appeals serves as a much-needed reminder of New York's commitment to tolerance, diversity, and human dignity. Most importantly, Judge Feinman is a jurist of eminent ability and impeccable credentials who will apply the law fairly and equitably. I congratulate him on this historic day."