He said he's focused on passing an economic development proposal, helping local governments in distress, and getting the Senate to support Assembly bills for a Dream Act to provide college aid to illegal immigrants, among other issues.

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Meanwhile, two Stormont assembly members are attempting to change the law to make it illegal to perform an abortion outside the NHS. It follows the opening of the private Marie Stopes International clinic in Belfast last year.

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Late on Tuesday, Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver said Democrats were willing to consider Republican ideas on increasing penalties for illegal gun crime.

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