Reform threatens political perks

ALBANY - New York's biggest political scandal in decades has prompted promises of reform by a Legislature that has long protected its power and perks.

Some of the changes proposed might lead to some head-scratching from New Yorkers outside the Capitol who pay for those perks.

Still other changes called for this week might help turn around a state government seen as stalled by the combative relationship between a new, headstrong Democratic governor and an entrenched Legislature, led by Senate Republicans fighting to cling to power.