Friend: Sunshine For State Authorities But Not For The Legislature

Assemblyman Christopher S. Friend (R,C,I-Big Flats) is a sponsor of Assembly Bill 4788, which passed the Assembly today. The bill would require New York State Authorities to webcast their meetings for the public. While many in the chamber were applauding a new level of transparency for authorities and were willing to stop there, Friend is still working to expand the use of cameras and webcasting in the Legislature.

“A week ago, nearly every Majority member voted against using cameras in our committee meetings,” Friend said. “Yet this week, they all supported using cameras in meetings held by the State Authorities. It’s sunshine for thee, but not for me. If we believe in putting these meetings on camera, to be viewed by the public, then we should abide by the same rules. The hypocrisy of the Assembly Majority was on high display today, and the people of this state deserve better.”

Assembly Bill 4788 has been delivered to the Senate.