Assemblyman Ken Blankenbush (R,C,I-Black River) today called for a set of 17 Assembly rules changes to help create more transparency and openness in the House. Blankenbush has been calling for many of the reforms since he was first elected to the Assembly.

“The halls of the State Capitol have been rocked by scandal and disgraced politicians, and these antics have often kept the Legislature from doing the work of the people. I am here to say enough is enough and to call for reforms to restore accountability and trust,” said Blankenbush.

In total, there are 17 Assembly rules reforms, with an emphasis on setting eight-year term limits for legislative leaders, the speaker of the assembly and committee chairs. Blankenbush has consistently called for leadership term limits, noting that former Speaker Silver held on to the powerful position for nearly 20 years before his arrest in January.

Additional reforms include video recording of all legislative committees, which are to be made available on the Assembly website. Furthermore, to ensure the people of the state are fairly represented, the rules proposals would allow each member of the Assembly to bring at least one substantive piece of legislation to the floor for a vote.

“What we outlined today are sensible reform measures that the people of this state deserve. We can and must do a better job for New Yorkers, and it starts with an honest look at ourselves,” Blankenbush concluded.

Editor’s Note: A list of the 17 reforms are attached.