That you are here representing the many victims of gun violence who could not be here to confer with their elected leaders, speaks volumes about the character of this organization.

For myself and for my own family, I thank you for speaking out on behalf of every New York family who hopes and prays for greater social sanity through sensible gun control.

In this time of uncertainty and frustration, you are making a difference. You are the heroes. This is why we are listening to you.

Later in this legislative session, the Assembly will once again take up and pass intelligent gun legislation. If adopted, our legislation will make our communities safer, will keep weapons out of the hands of dangerous felons and that will help our law enforcement agencies combat gun trafficking.

On behalf of my colleagues in the Assembly Democratic Majority - we who have championed sensible gun control in this state for more than a decade - I thank Jackie Hilly and the New Yorkers Against Gun Violence for your leadership and for working with us to crafting strong, intelligent, anti-gun-violence legislation.

I hope that you appreciate Jackie's leadership as much as we do.

Our best hope for ending gun violence, for ending the senseless murder of sons and daughters, mothers and fathers, is sitting in this audience in front of me.

Young people are the key to changing the culture of violence that permeates every corner of our state and our nation.

Thank you - all of you - for your leadership and for your concern. I speak for a great number of New Yorkers when I say, we hope that you are very successful in your lobbying efforts today.

I know you will never give up. I promise you, neither will we.

Make the most of your day in Albany. Good luck and thanks for being here.