STATEMENT FROM GOVERNOR DAVID A. PATERSON

“The dysfunction and chaos in the Senate has wasted an entire week of the people’s business. Earlier today, I called the leaders of the Legislature to urge them to stay beyond June 22 to allow enough time to address the critical issues confronting our State. If the Senate adjourns without allowing enough time to address the people’s business, I will convene the Legislature in extraordinary session at a date to be announced so that we can finish the people’s business.

“There are critical issues that need to be addressed on behalf of the people of New York – a spending cap so government will finally live within its means; property tax relief; ethics reform; pension reform; Power for Jobs; marriage equality; and expanded health care coverage for families. These are my priorities for this session. I understand that the Assembly and the Senate also have priorities that deserve attention and action. I am open to working with them on these issues as well.”