PEF Endorses Richard Brodsky for Attorney General

ALBANY, NY (08/16/2010)(readMedia)-- The New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF) today announced its endorsement of Richard Brodsky for Attorney General.

"In the Assembly, Richard Brodsky has led the fight to reform the 700 public authorities that litter state government," said PEF President Kenneth Brynien.

"These authorities all too often duplicate the work of state agencies, wasting taxpayer dollars, operating with less accountability and transparency, and serving as dumping grounds for political cronies. In 2009, as Chair of the Committee on Corporations, Authorities, and Commissions, Brodsky spearheaded the enactment of the Public Authorities Reform Act, which has shed much needed light on New York's shadow government, something PEF has long called for.

"Brodsky also has been supportive of PEF's "Go Public" campaign which includes legislation requiring the state to perform a cost-benefit analysis before entering into contracts for services.

"Brodsky has always been responsive to his constituents. He has had an open door policy to hear the concerns of PEF members and has been a strong advocate for the needs of middle-class families. He has proven himself an open and honest candidate and effective leader in the state assembly. We believe those qualities will help make him a strong attorney general.

"Brodsky also has sought to safeguard the New York State pension fund. He has sponsored legislation that would allow public pension funds and other institutional investors to recoup damages through the Martin Act from massive investment losses that result from fraudulent practices on Wall Street," Brynien said.

"I am honored to receive the political support from a labor union that has so diligently worked to help its members who provide such a great service to all New Yorkers," said Richard Brodsky. I am proud to have worked with President Kenneth Brynien and the members of PEF on reforming how New York's public authorities do business; shedding light on these Soviet-style bureaucracies. I look forward to campaigning with PEF members as we continue to build a strong field operation throughout New York," Brodsky said.

PEF is the state's second-largest state-employee union, representing 58,000 professional, scientific and technical employees.