What a refreshing change we have in Sen. Darrel Aubertine. Albany is already aware he works to the beat of a different drum. As he pointed out recently, the very structure of the Senate prevents us from moving forward with bipartisan solutions. I'm happy to see that he has decisively pinpointed areas within the state Senate workings to begin to dissolve this partisan inequity.

His reform package includes legislation that would make sure our home rule bills can get to the floor for a vote, allow any senator to sponsor legislation regardless of party, bring similar bills passed in the Assembly and Senate to a conference committee to work out compromises and equalize office resources so that every constituent is treated fairly. We've seen how the partisan games affect us and he's fighting to stop that.

We have already voted for change in Albany. We are represented by a new, constituent-oriented legislator. Sen. Darrel Aubertine has proposed ways to streamline the Senate, level the playing field and hone in on the issues of importance. Let's make sure Sen. Aubertine can keep up his vital work and continue his job as the senator we deserve and need in the 48th District.

Janet Burrows

Clayton