As expected, the current scandal in Albany around state Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver has fanned the flames for more reform in the Legislature. “Term limits would strike at a problem more pervasive than corruption (at the Capitol): legislative careerism,” says Tim Hoefer, executive director of the Empire Center for Public Policy. Read More
Sheldon Silver's 38 years in the Assembly allowed him to amass immense political power which he is accused of abusing to pocket millions of dollars in kickbacks. And it's that 38 years in a public office that will give him a pension worth more than the annual salary of a rank-and-file assembly member. Read More
If Sheldon Silver remains a rank-and-file legislator after stepping down as Assembly speaker, he will be losing money on the deal, according to the Empire Center's pension calculator. Read More
The corruption case against Speaker Sheldon Silver has prompted more calls for reform of the Legislature. Read More
Though it hit the state Capitol like a tidal wave Thursday, the arrest of Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver on federal corruption charges isn't the first time a legislative leader has been charged with wrongdoing. But it could turn out to be a watershed. Read More
It's the new year, U.S. Congress has opened its 114th session and the New York Legislature is back in Albany to do the people's work. Your applause is deafening. Read More
Proposed legislation can wait decades for two-house passage Read More
It’s going to be a very happy new year for nine veteran state lawmakers who will “retire” Jan. 1 to collect their pensions — but remain in office on full salary. Read More