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FEELING THE HEAT
Just a few short weeks ago, Albany lawmakers were stating that they thought the legislative session should end with a "whimper," not a bang. The public reacted strongly and negatively. In this election year, that public reaction seems to have lit a fire in Albany. In addition to the debate over property tax relief, brownfields and sub-prime mortgages, other issues appear to be on their way to being addressed. Lawmakers approved big legislation on "net metering," which will stimulate the production of clean, renewable New York State power. Under the net metering agreement, all ratepayers – both residential and commercial alike – will have incentives to use solar and wind power to generate savings for themselves as well as clean power that will take some pressure off the state’s electric grid. In addition, lawmakers have approved less well-known legislation, like changes to the Tuition Assistance Program to allow students who have had significant income changes during the school year -- divorce, death, medical costs, etc. -- to appeal for adjustments in the amount of state aid that they receive. For years, the federal government allowed students to obtain changes in their Pell Grant awards if they suffered serious changes in their income, but New York State refused to follow suit. This agreement is good news for students and their families. Other important issues are close to agreement: Public Authorities reform -- which would create an independent oversight entity and boost the accountability of these quasi-government entities. Doctor Discipline -- which would strengthen the state's ability to monitor and if necessary discipline doctors delivering questionable care. Lead Poisoning -- which would create a state program to eliminate lead hazards before children are poisoned. Climate Change -- a "sleeper" issue that would implement the recommendation of the Nobel-prize winner (with Al Gore) Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change's to slash greenhouse gas emissions by 80% by the year 2050. Bigger Better Bottle Bill -- discussions are underway which may expand the state’s 26 year old bottle deposit law—the state’s most successful waste reduction and recycling program. Of course, you never know what will actually occur at the Capitol. Good bills may stall and special interest legislation may go the distance. But the session is looking far more promising than it did a few weeks ago. And the change in heart is a reflection of lawmakers feeling the heat. New Yorkers deserve a government that attempts to solve the state’s problems and does so in an open manner. The session’s prospects for improved output should hearten all New Yorkers that when lawmakers hear from their constituents, things can happen. This is the essence of democracy. These apparent legislative actions should not be a cause for celebration; much more needs to be done. Governor Paterson ran for election two years ago pledging to change Albany and the way it conducts its political business. It is quite clear that reforms are still needed. It’s important for New Yorkers to keep the heat on. And without sufficient heat from the public, everything Albany does is half baked. That’s all for now. I’ll be keeping an eye on the Capitol and will talk to you again next week.
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