Wednesday, the legislature passed its ethics reform bill.

“As far as I’m concerned, this bill is a long time coming,” said Senator Eric Schneiderman.

The legislature went ahead with its ethics reform package, despite Governor Paterson’s warning of a veto, which they plan to override. This, on top of their rejection to his education reform bill during Monday’s late night special session and failure to pass their own plan to help make New York more eligible for up to $700 million of federal Race to the Top education grant money.

“That shows lack of leadership. And if that type of lack of leadership continues this budget will go right into July. I can’t see the leadership there to balance it correctly and to get our finances in control,” said Senator Marty Golden.

How the budget process moves forward from this is a concern of many in the Capitol. The Governor has been on the warpath, repeatedly criticizing the legislature.

“What the Governor should be looking toward is not running against the legislature and some desperate hope of trying to get traction in this election year, but rather partner with the legislature,” said Senate Finance Committee Chair Carl Kruger.

The Governor’s $134 billion plan includes $5.5 billion worth of cuts and at least a billion of tax and fee increases and while some say it doesn’t go far enough..

“It’s largely an election year budget that is designed to do what needs to be done to get through this year,” said EJ McMahon, Empire Center For NYS Policy Director.

There’s already push back from special interest groups decrying the governor’s proposed cuts. Lawmakers insist though they are prepared to make the tough decisions during budget negotiations.

“The question is whether there’s the fortitude to be able to develop a budget. At the same time, working with the Assembly, I think we’re going to come up with a comprehensive plan that will pull us out of this morass,” Kruger said.

And while many are not pleased with Paterson’s tone over the past few months, several lawmakers say there’s still time to turn things around.

“Fractures do heal. In times of political realities, people have been known to come together and do what’s best for the people they represent,” said Assemblyman Keith Wright.

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