Klein 'relaunches' ethics proposals

Bronx state Sen. Jeff Klein and his group of breakaway Democrats say they are “relaunching” a package of ethics proposals in the wake of Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver’s Nov. 30. conviction on corruption charges 

Mr. Klein called for a ban on outside income for lawmakers, “comprehensive” campaign finance reform and other measures.

“As one of my colleagues in the legislature noted, this is starting to feel like ‘Groundhog Day,’ as the IDC re-introduces legislation year after year,” the senator said in a statement.

Shortly after Mr. Silver and state Sen. Dean Skelos, who is currently on trial for corruption, were arrested earlier this year, Mr. Klein disinvested from his own law firm.

“Every day of inaction brings us one step further from the strong, transparent government that New York deserves — we must immediately act to pass these measures,” stated Mr. Klein. 

The senator did not answer an interview request for this article.

Guards for private schools

The City Council passed legislation on Monday to provide the city’s non-public schools with security officers upon request. The bill had been in development in the city’s legislative body for nearly two years.

Northwest Bronx Councilman Andrew Cohen explained that increased violence and domestic terrorism were a factor in members’ decision to support the legislation, which passed by a 41-4 vote. He added that local private schools had actively pushed for the bill.

“Particularly [the Salanter Akiba Riverdale Academy] has been very active and reached out to me repeatedly,” Mr. Cohen said.

The United Federation of Teachers and the Council of School Supervisors and Administrators both came out in opposition of the legislation, citing a need to keep taxpayer money away from private institutions. 

“I don’t understand the opposition. It’s about keeping kids safe,” said Mr. Cohen.

He explained that the bill does not intend to increase police presence in schools, but will provide specially trained security guards upon request. $19.8 million is expected to fund the program’s first year.