Daily Archives: June 16, 2011

The Special Election Law

Posted on June 16, 2011 by | Leave a comment

Election Law attorney Jerry Goldfeder, a former aide to Gov. Andrew Cuomo back when he was in the AG’s office, emailed to address questions of whether the governor is required to call a special election to fill the seat left vacant by today’s resignation of ex-Rep. Anthony Weiner. “According to the United States Constitution, the governor is required to issue ‘writs of election’ when there is a vacancy in the House – unlike when there is a vacancy in the United States Senate, which allows gubernatorial appointment,” Goldfeder wrote. “We can expect, then, that the governor will soon issue a proclamation for a special election for Congressman Weiner’s seat. The speculation is that the special will occur at the same time as the specials for the vacant Assembly seats, and that they will be on primary day, September 13th.” “If true, this would make sense because the Board of Elections is already out and working; so, it is convenient and, importantly, cost-effective. Furthermore, the law was recently changed so that the issuance of a proclamation must be between 70 and 80 days before the special. So, if you do the math, we have a little time before the governor issues a proclamation.” “Besides, the Governor is obviously quite busy as the legislative session draws to a close.”

Source

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New York Assembly Approves Marriage Equality in Vote of 80-63

Posted on June 16, 2011 by | Leave a comment

As expected, after several hours of emotional debate, New York’s Assembly has approved the ‘Marriage Equality Act’ by a vote of 80-63.

A similar bill has been submitted to the New York Senate. Senate Republicans conferenced for several hours today, emerging with no decision on whether there would be a vote. Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos said they would convene again tomorrow.

31 of 32 Senators need to pass it have committed to support the bill. All that stands between it now is one vote.

If you have not called your Senator, you should do so NOW, and politely urge them to support the marriage equality bill. The list of Senators who are currently on the fence, along with contact information, can be found HERE.

Tomorrow should be another busy day.

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Reed may join Ways & Means Committee

Posted on June 16, 2011 by | Leave a comment

U.S. Rep. Tom Reed may be on his way to serving on the House’s Ways and Means Committee. Reed, R-Corning, was recommended Thursday, June 9 to fill a vacant seat on the committee by the House Republican Steering Committee, according to various Washington-based media outlets.

Reed’s appointment must now be ratified by the House Republican Conference, which is expected to meet June 14.

Reed’s office would not confirm or deny the possible appointment. If ratified, Reed would have to step down from the House Rules Committee, a source said.

Being a member of Ways and Means would be a big step up for Reed, who was elected in November but is technically in his second term. The committee is the oldest and most powerful in the House and sets policy on taxation, trade, entitlements and unemployment benefits.

If named, Reed would replace former Rep. Dean Heller, R-Nev., who was appointed to fill the Senate seat vacated by Sen. John Ensign.

Earlier this year Reed reportedly was recommended by U.S. Rep. Peter King, the senior member of New York’s Republican delegation, to replace former U.S. Rep. Chris Lee on the committee.

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