FROM THE CSEA ACTION CENTER

This Week In Albany
Week ending January 18, 2013

Governor Cuomo Signs The NY SAFE Act (Secure Ammunition and Firearms Enforcement Act) 

Governor Cuomo signed a new law that will ban magazines that hold more than seven rounds, down from the current limit of ten. The law also includes a stricter definition of assault weapons, a statewide re-certification of pistol permits every five years, instant background checks on all ammunition purchases at the time of sale and new provisions to keep guns out of the hands of convicted felons and potentially dangerous mental health patients.

Democrat Cecilia Tkaczyk defeats George Amedore in 46th Senate District

Democrat Cecilia Tkaczyk has defeated Republican George Amedore by 19 votes.  Tkaczyk will join the State Senate after election officials in Ulster County opened 90 ballots.

Her victory makes the official party breakdown in the State Senate now 5 Independent Democrats, 27 Democrats, 30 Republicans, and a Democrat, Simcha Felder who is conferencing with the Senate Republicans.


Audit Cites SUNY Downstate’s Mismanagement for Fiscal Problems

According to an audit released by Comptroller DiNapoli, SUNY Downstate Medical Center’s poor fiscal condition is attributable to the poor financial decisions and mismanagement by top administrators.

While SUNY Downstate was losing money over the past few years, fifteen of the hospital's top administrators were receiving salaries over $200,000.  Also Downstate’s acquisition of Victory Memorial Hospital and Long Island College Hospital was a major cause of the financial mess, the audit said.

CSEA has developed a strategic plan for members and staff to lobby their elected officials against any attempt to privatize SUNY Downstate.  The plan will also call for the top administrators to be removed and better oversight over Downstate’s financial decisions.

Week at a Glance

Governor Cuomo will release his Executive Budget on Tuesday January 22nd.