Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos just issued this statement, basically saying redistricting reform is important, but not as important as the budget, tax relief and job creation right now.

“The issue of redistricting reform is an important one and I have said repeatedly that we will act on reform legislation. A number of proposals have been advanced and we have to take a close look at what makes the most sense to ensure a fair, open and truly nonpartisan process,” Skelos said in a statement.

“Cutting government spending, reducing taxes, providing property tax relief and creating private sector jobs are critically important issues that impact every family and business in this state. That’s why our focus right now must be on getting a fiscally responsible budget enacted by April 1st, which is just 43 days away.”

Since winning back the Senate in November, Republicans have appeared to walk back from their pledge to Ed Koch’s committee NY Uprising, which called for an independent redistricting commission. As you can see by the statement, Skelos is not prepared yet to publicly back this latest bill by Governor Cuomo.

Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver has also yet to release a statement on the plan. As you will remember, he did not sign Mayor Koch’s pledge before the election.

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