NEW YORK, NY July 16, 2009 —The New York State Senate worked into the early hours this morning to pass a series of reforms lawmakers say will minimize the power of leaders, and strengthen the influence of rank-and-file lawmakers.

Lawmakers reached an agreement on how to distribute pork barrel spending, giving the Republican minority $8-million of $85-million in member item grants. Going forward, the majority party will receive two-thirds of taxpayer-funded dollars, and the minority will receive one-third.

The new reforms will also apply eight-year term limits to Senate leaders and committee leaders, and make it easier for senators to bring bills to a vote. Only one senator - Brooklyn Democrat Kevin Parker - voted against the reforms.

In a joint statement, state Democrats and Republicans say the new plan would provide a more equitable distribution of resources.