Politics on the Hudson

   State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli announced last night that he would free up senators’ pay, vouchers and per diem rates they receive. He had put them on hold, something Gov. David Paterson requested, during the leadership stalemate that dragged on for weeks.

   Here’s what DiNapoli said in a statement:

   “It’s welcome news that New York state will no longer be paralyzed by the stalemate in teh Senate. New York taxpayers didn’t ask for this crisis, and they have already paid too high a price. The Senate can now act on important legislation and provide much-needed relief to New York’s municipalities.

   “Last week, I instructed my staff to initiate the process to hold Senators’ pay. As the state’s fiscal officer, I took this action to protect the taxpayers’ interests.

   “We have received certification from President Pro Tem Malcolm Smith, and my office will now begin processing Senators’ paychecks, vouchers and per diems.”