March 5, 2014
By Stephanie West
Albany, NY — On a visit to Albany Tuesday March 4th, New York City Council Speaker Melissa-Mark-Viverito, unveiled the New York City Council’s state budget and legislative agenda for the coming year. The priorities range from giving New York City the ability to set its minimum wage, funding universal pre-k through a tax on the wealthiest New Yorkers and passing the DREAM Act to restoring aid to CUNY, passing the Woman’s Equality Act, funding for LGBT health and human services and critical Sandy Relief.
Speaker Mark-Viverito said: “These budget and legislative priorities reflect the values and principles of the New York City Council and our commitment to stand up for all New Yorkers. Whether it is passing the DREAM Act, funding universal pre-k or allowing New York City to set its own minimum wage, the Council is dedicated to working with our colleagues in Albany to deliver for New York City. I am looking forward to a constructive and productive dialogue with state legislators on the important issues facing New York’s families.”
The council is vigorously lobbying the state legislature and governor to permit New York City to determine it's own minimum wage and develop a sustainable funding stream for UPK and after school programing.
