No 'Lame Duck' Session This Year

The state senate will not convene this year after the November general election. Senate President Pro Tem Joe Scarnati says he made the announcement today so the Legislature and the governor can make plans to complete this year's work before the election. The 26 days between November 4 and November 30 are known as a "lame duck" session because some members of the General Assembly can vote on legislation despite the fact that their successors have already been elected. At least six new members will be elected to the Senate this year, replacing retiring members. Lame duck sessions have been criticized because legislators and the governor are less accountable to voters during this period of time. Scarnati says although the senate will not convene after the election, they will be ready to act if an extraordinary event necessitates legislative action.