Stephens Tapped for Top Leadership Post
Assemblyman appointed minority leader pro tem

Assembly Minority Leader Charles H. Nesbitt has appointed Assemblyman Willis H. Stephens (R,C,I-Brewster) minority leader pro tem for the 2005 legislative session. Assemblyman Stephens will also serve as a member of the Ways and Means, Judiciary and Rules committees.

As minority leader pro tem, Assemblyman Stephens is responsible for floor strategy and debates, and for ensuring that parliamentary procedures and legislative protocol are observed. He is second-in-command to the Assembly minority leader.

"I am privileged and honored to be appointed minority leader pro tem. I will continue to serve my constituents to the best of my abilities, and I look forward to working with other members of my appointed committees. Serving in a leadership position will give me greater opportunity to help implement meaningful legislation," said Assemblyman Stephens.

In addition to his leadership position, Stephens continues to serve on the powerful Ways and Means Committee. Bills that provide for state appropriations or increase costs for state and local governments are referred to the committee. It’s members have important roles in the development and public promotion of the Assembly’s budget position.

"As a member of the Ways and Means Committee, I have the opportunity to voice my opinion on important issues that face this state and threaten to cripple our local communities, such as the rising cost of unfunded mandates and increased taxes," said Stephens.

Assemblyman Stephens’ background in law will be particularly useful in fulfilling his committee assignments and leadership position. He is a partner in the law firm of Stephens and Charbonneau in Brewster. Prior to being elected assemblyman, Stephens worked as assistant counsel to former Senate Majority Leader Warren Anderson, and later was reappointed to work for former Senate Majority Leader Ralph Marino. In the Assembly, Stephens’ legal expertise and knowledge of legislation lends to his success as a well-respected member of the minority conference.

"The 2005 legislative session presents many great opportunities and challenges. I will certainly put forth an aggressive effort to help further the goals of the minority conference and the residents of New York state," said Assemblyman Stephens.

Assemblyman Stephens was elected to office in 1994 and currently represents the 99th Assembly District, which consists of parts of Westchester, Dutchess and Putnam counties.