NY lawmakers return to Albany to get ready for 2019

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) -- Members of the New York state Assembly are getting an early start to 2019.

Members of the Assembly's Democratic majority will gather Wednesday for the first of a few days of meetings. Senate Democrats are also meeting this week to prepare for 2019, when they will have the majority in the Senate.

The Assembly Committee on Veterans Affairs will also hold a hearing Wednesday on veteran employment programs.

Lawmakers say the early meetings, many held behind closed doors, help them pick priorities and plot strategy before the session begins.

The full Legislature is scheduled to convene January 9 for the beginning of its six-month session.

Meanwhile, Democratic Gov. Andrew Cuomo will get the new year started when he delivers his third inaugural address on January 1 on Ellis Island.

AP-WF-12-12-18 0507GMT