Tensions Continue to Run High in the State Senate as End of Session Approaches

June 12th, 2018

With one Republican State Senator missing from Albany because he has returned to active military duty, the Senate has been left with an even split — 31 Republicans and 31 Democrats. Just 7 scheduled session days remain for 2018.

Last Monday, 130 bills were passed quietly with overwhelming bipartisan support. But on Tuesday, political divisions once again led to legislative gridlock in the Senate. Lt. Governor Kathy Hochul was presiding over the chamber, when the Democrats attempted to advance an amendment on contraception and abortion rights. (The Lt. Governor can, under very limited circumstances, cast a tie-breaking vote.) A stalemate ensured, with each side accusing the other of political gamesmanship. The Senate adjourned without passing any legislation.

On Wednesday and Thursday, the Lt. Governor did not preside, and the Senate returned to its normal legislative operations. It’s unclear what this week’s Senate sessions will hold.