What is the State Senate Republican Leadership Hiding?

Today, Senate Democrats are calling for votes on two measures that would increase compliance with and strengthen the State's Freedom of Information Laws (FOIL).

Senate Democratic Leader David A. Paterson said a FOIL measure sponsored by Senator David Valesky (D-Oneida) which would make the State Legislature subject to the FOIL laws that govern other State agencies, is "simple in concept, but would have broad implications in opening State government to public scrutiny."

Valesky said "We have got to remove the atmosphere of secrecy in Albany. Why is the Legislature being held to a different standard than other State agencies?"

The second measure, sponsored by Republican Senate Judiciary Chairman John DeFrancisco, would force State agencies that improperly deny or delay FOIL requests to pay the legal costs incurred by those seeking the public records.

"All too often, people have to sue to enforce the public's right to know," said Valesky. "That prevents news organizations from gathering information in a timely manner, and presents a serious financial burden for the average citizen."

Unfortunately, Republican Majority Leader Joe Bruno (R-Brunswick) has blocked both bills from coming to the floor for a vote, despite the fact that one of the measures is sponsored by a fellow Republican, and despite a wide range of support from newspaper associations and good government groups.

Yet another reason to work for a Democratic majority in the Senate this year. Now, more than ever, we need a NEW team for a NEW New York.