As part of a package of common-sense reforms to improve transparency and accountability offered by Assembly Minority, Assemblyman Ed Ra (R-Franklin Square) today spoke on a measure to impose eight-year term limits for Majority and Minority Leader of the Assembly.

“New leadership brings new ideas and fresh perspective that will ultimately help rank-and-file legislators and taxpayers,” Ra said. “I am disappointed that Assembly Majority voted to preserve the status quo and shot down these common-sense ethics reforms, but I will continue to fight for increased transparency, accountability and openness in how Albany functions.”

The Assembly also passed a measure to strip pension and retirement benefits from corrupt public officials and lawmakers. The measure must be passed by the Senate this year before it can go before voters for a statewide referendum.

“I was pleased to cast my vote in favor of the pension forfeiture bill today to get Albany one step closer to preventing and rooting out corruption in New York State government,” Ra said. “We cannot allow those who betray their fellow taxpayers and pad their own pockets to sail off on taxpayer-funded benefits. I look forward to the Senate passing this measure this year and bringing us closer to a government we can be proud of.”