Statement from IDC Leader Jeff Klein

  The Independent Democratic Conference outlined a bold agenda, One New Yorker, and we’re proud that we were able to achieve so much of it in this year's budget. After releasing several investigations, we stepped up for NYCHA tenants who live with lead paint, mold and deplorable conditions by delivering $250 million and crucial oversight pursuant to an Executive Order. We ensure that straphangers no longer face delays by funding the MTA's Subway Action Plan, and require the City to pay its share. We build upon the SAFE Act by removing guns from dangerous domestic violence abusers. We put in crucial protections for union workers to ensure their right of collective bargaining. We shield our taxpayers from harmful changes made by the federal government, while continuing our middle-class tax cut to ensure New Yorkers prosper. We are one New York, and this budget reflects that.

Statement from IDC Leader Jeff Klein

  A good tip by a vigilant New Yorker led investigators to a quiet block in my district, where hardworking residents were living next to brothers who allegedly hoarded explosive materials inside of their home. I know residents of the 34th State Senate district, and all New Yorkers, will stand bravely in the face of potential terror and report suspicious activity when they see it. I commend the attentive school computer technician who noticed an explosive making manual on a laptop returned by one of the suspects and called authorities, a move that undoubtedly prevented any potential tragedy. I applaud the NYPD and FBI for their quick action to uncover and take down this operation.

Statement from IDC Leader Jeff Klein

   The Independent Democratic Conference have long advocated to alleviate property taxes for our low- and middle-income senior and disabled homeowners through the Senior Citizen Homeowner Exemption (SCHE) and Disabled Homeowner Exemption (DHE) programs, which is why Senator Diane Savino carries legislation to discount these unaffordable costs. For these residents, living on a fixed income in New York City while owning a home and paying property taxes jeopardizes their ability to live out their golden years in dignity and comfort in the neighborhoods they contributed so much to. We applaud Mayor Bill de Blasio for recognizing the importance of these programs and look forward to working together to help ensure homeowners on fixed incomes also share in an affordable New York.