S10102

The New York State Senate Committee on Rules reported Senate Print 10102, sponsored by Senator Serrano, authorizing the South Country Central School District to finance certain deficits. The bill was directed to third reading. The Rules Committee report was accepted by the Senate.

The New York State Senate passed legislation authorizing the South Country Central School District to finance certain deficits, with the bill winning overwhelming approval on a 57-1 vote. The measure, sponsored by Sen. Serrano and designated Calendar Number 877, came after a message of necessity was accepted to expedite consideration. Sen. Murray, explaining his affirmative vote, characterized the bill as a rescue operation for a school district facing an acute financial crisis. He stated the district would literally run out of money within a week and be unable to pay teacher salaries or keep the lights on. While acknowledging prior mismanagement, Murray emphasized the immediate priority was ensuring students could complete their school year. He credited Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins, the Governor, Minority Leader Ortt, Assembly Speaker, and Assemblyman Joe DeStefano for months of collaborative work on the resolution. Only Sen. Weber voted against the bill. The legislation takes effect immediately.