Congress may be in chaos, but here in Albany, the new legislative session is in full swing and I have some exciting news to share.
In addition to returning to my position as chair of the Labor Committee, I am thrilled to announce that I was just appointed to the Judiciary Committee.
These positions, and my other committee posts, will allow me to play a meaningful role in making our state a better, fairer place to live for everyone.
Having these seats ensures that I will be able to help lead the way on some of the most urgent issues facing New Yorkers. I plan to play a lead role supporting the historic wave of union organizing and reforming our criminal justice system.
I am incredibly grateful to State Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins and all of my fellow Democrats for their trust and leadership. Most importantly, I am thankful to you. Your support makes this all possible.
As of my appointment, I was the only member of the Judiciary Committee who had publicly come out to oppose the nomination of Hector LaSalle as chief judge of the Court of Appeals. LaSalle has opposed worker organization and reproductive rights.
Some of my colleagues are backing this nomination, but I will not. I will do everything I can to stop conservative judges in our state.
That’s why I’m writing to you today. To let you know that I will ALWAYS speak up for what’s right, even if it’s against members of my party.
We went to Albany determined to lift from the bottom - securing historic investments in universal child care, making sure New York leads a just transition to a green union economy and closing loopholes in our labor laws that give bosses unfair advantages over workers.
We could not have done this without our neighbors who shared their stories or the unions who backed our bills.
From our salary disclosure legislation to the Warehouse Worker Protection Act, we are leveling the playing field for the wave of union organizing happening in our economy.
2023 marks my third term representing the neighborhood that raised me in Albany. The most diverse district in the world knows that we all know better when we all do better. Our team is ready to head back to the legislative session and fight for Queens.
Until then, I hope you and your families have a happy New Year!
