Busy Senate still stymied

ALBANY, N.Y. (WIVB) - A judge ordered the New York State Senate into a special session, but did they really accomplish anything?

Governor David Paterson said, "I am calling another extraordinary session for today at 7:00."

The day began with the entire Senate in session after a court ruling compelled the warring factions into chamber. But it didn't last long, and no state business was done.

Senator Michael Ranzenhofer said, "I showed up today to vote on them like I showed up yesterday, and the day before, and the day before and the day before that, and last week, and the week before that. That's why I'm here."

Then Tuesday afternoon, Democrats claimed control of the split chamber, declaring a quorum after a Republican lawmaker walked through the chamber.

They voted on a host of bills stalled in the three week power struggle. But the power play was immediately rejected by the governor, who said he wouldn't sign any of the legislation.

Governor Paterson said, "Once again the 'do nothing Senate' has exceeded out greatest fears and contempt."

The governor has ordered the Senate back into session Tuesday night to take on important time-sensitive bills.

During the Yahoo! announcement, he did have a light moment via video conference when asked about staying in Albany.

Paterson said, "Senator, you don't know how badly I wish I was there with you." (laughs)

It's taken the courts to get all 62 members under the same roof, at the same time.

Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver, in Buffalo for another event, weighed in on the Senate gridlock.

News 4's Luke Moretti asked him if he thinks it's a good idea for the courts to get involved in the legislative branch.

Silver said, "Well at this point, I think there's no alternative and the courts are the interpreter of the law."

How long could the stalemate drag on?

Silver said, "It's funny. I can't tell you how long. All I know is eventually the people of this state will weigh in and say, 'look we need this state to move forward, you have to work it out.'"

The Senate was ordered by the court to conduct sessions as a full body, all 62 senators.

GOP attorneys are going before the full five member Appellate Division in an effort to get the ruling overturned.

Contact your senator.