"The people of the North Country have had enough of corrupt politicians taking advantage of the faith placed in them. I cast my vote in favor of legislation stripping pensions from public officials who have violated the public’s trust," Assemblywoman Russell said.
"Clearly public officials who violate the public trust should not be rewarded by being allowed to collect their pensions. Corruption has no place in our state and those who have abused their power must face the full consequences of their actions," she added.
"That is why I felt it was so important to co-sponsor this legislation. We must continue to enact tough standards to ensure our government is working for the people. This is a critical first step, and I will continue to fight for legislation to close the limited liability corporation campaign funding loophole and to limit outside income for state legislators. These are common sense good government initiatives,” Assemblywoman Russell said.
The proposed constitutional amendment would apply to all elected officials at the state and local level, judges, executive appointees, policymakers, municipal managers, department heads and chief fiscal officers.
The Assembly's amendment now moves to the state Senate. After the amendment passes the Senate, it would need to pass again during the next legislative term, 2017-18, to be placed on the ballot as a public referendum needing voter approval to change the New York State Constitution.
Public officials who joined the state retirement system after Nov. 13, 2011 already face the potential loss of their pension benefits if they are convicted of corruption charges directly related to their role as public officials.