Doctors Discuss Justice Center Proposal

Improving care of the developmentally disabled is one of Governor Cuomo’s top priorities for this year. To do that, he’s proposing the creation of a Justice Center to monitor state-run facilities. But Dr. Mitchell Shear, Dr. Ilana Slaff And Dr. Nathan Blenkush are concerned that in at attempt to ban abuse, the bill goes too far with limiting treatment options.

Maragos Talks Running for Senate

Out of the three Republicans running for US Senate, George Maragos has been in the race the longest. And he’s confident he’ll be the one who wins the primary later this month, even though he was behind in this week’s Siena poll.

Joint Landowners Counsel Discusses Fracking and the Economy

The Joint Landowners Coalition paid a visit to the capitol Thursday to remind lawmakers there is support for hydrofracking in New York. And if drilling does move forward, they’d like the first chance to sign up. The group’s counsel, Scott Kurkoski, explains.

Lifton and Kavanagh Discuss Allowing Limited Fracking

Dozens of assembly members are calling for more research into hydrofracking before any final decision is made. They say the DEC failed to address several issues with its research. And Assemblyman Brian Kavanagh and Assemblywoman Barbara Lifton saying allowing drilling in limited parts of the state is not the way to get the answers.

Sen. Libous Talks Public Assistance Limitations

In response to reports about public assistance benefit cards being used to withdraw money at racetracks and strip clubs, Senator Tom Libous wants to be sure that money is being spend on what it’s intended for. EBT cards are supposed to supplement food stamps by paying for items like soap or school supplies. Libous’s bill would put more limitations on them, including a ban on purchasing cigarettes or alcohol.

Danks Burke Talks Running in New 23rd District

Leslie Danks Burkes announced her plans to run for Congress before the redistricting process was complete and she knew what district she’d be running in. Now, she says the new 23rd distrist is a great fit, and she’s optimistic about her changes of defeating the two other Democrats running the primary later this month.

Turner Discusses Senate Race

The three Republicans running for US Senate have all been working hard to introduce themselves to voters. Congressman Bob Turner has also been running ads to boost his support. And he believes this week’s Siena poll shows it’s paying off.

Faith Leaders Discuss Minimum Wage Push

Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver is not convinced the minimum wage increase will get done this session. But other advocates still have faith. And they displayed that Wednesday with a pray-in at the capitol. Elder Will Seton, Rev. Bob Coleman and Rev. Cass Shaw, along with worker Clarissa Lankford, explain their goal.

Sen. Klein on Cyberbullying Bill

Lamwakers are working on a deal to crackdown on cyberbully. It’s something Senator Jeff Klein says affects many students. He explains how his bill could help reduce the problem.

Effective NY Looking at Constitutional Changes

The group Effective NY was formed to push for a constitutional convention for New York State. And they recently held an essay contest to raise awareness and look at possible changes. Patrick Woods won that contest. He and Dr. Gerald Benjamin discuss the winning essay.