Is the Senate stalemate almost over?

ALBANY, N.Y. (WIVB) - After a month of no-work in Albany, a power-sharing deal could end the senate stalemate. We've been hearing about state senators working on a power sharing deal, for weeks. Wednesday, we could learn whether both sides will reach an agreement.

The Republicans want to make a deal with Democrats. It would be a binding agreement through 2010 calling for co-leaders who would oversee senate operations.

All resources from staff salaries and member items would reportedly be split evenly between the two opposing sides.
Democrats aren't opposed to the plan.

"If it can be worked out that would be ok with me. It would get of out of the situation of 31-31," said Senator William Stachowski.

Republican State Senator George Maziarz said this side would do more to ensure Western New York gets its fair share.

According to Maziarz, under the Democratic leadership, utility rates went up among other things.

"Under this 50 - 50 sharing we're going to be able to stop some of these things. Western New Yorkers are going to have a voice."

Democrats continue to urge Republicans to join them and pass bills for power for jobs program. A program that affects thousand of jobs statewide and could impact 5000 jobs at the Ford Stamping plant in Woodlawn.

As we wait to see what happens in the Senate, the big question is which power sharing proposal will the state senators adhere to?

"Whether either one will go through, I can't answer that. Every time we offer long or short term agreements they're rejected unless we have Pedro Espada as president."

Espada, who joined the Republican coalition a month ago said the Republican plan may prevail. He told reporters Tuesday a number of fed-up Democrats are considering joining the coalition.

Governor Paterson will address New Yorkers just after 5 pm Wednesday. News 4 will be covering the address on News 4 at 5 and streaming it live here on WIVB.com.