Democrat Shirley Huntley became famous as a defender of children’s rights, a fighter for quality education and a legislator who improved the treatment of people with mental illnesses. Many of her initiatives have positively impacted the lives of countless people who deserve fair and equal treatment. However, all her merits were overshadowed by a corruption incident, when it turned out that the politician illegally used taxpayers’ funds. Read more about the controversial senator on queensyes.com.
State legislator
Shirley Huntley was born on June 29, 1938 in Queens. Before starting public service, she worked as the president of the Community School Board. In 2007-2013, the politician represented the 10th district (covers Queens) in the New York State Senate. By the way, the Senate is the upper house of the New York State Legislature. The lower house is the Assembly. Senators are elected for 2 years. They have no limits on the number of terms of service. The number of seats in the Senate is not permanent and is regulated by the state Constitution. Senators work in the Capitol.
Huntley’s primary responsibility as a senator was to ensure the best possible education for all children in the community. Her passionate concern for the well-being of students has led her to be involved in the public school system and to participate in many other community projects and organizations.
Huntley has always fought for the well-being of children, working to improve the public school system, advocating for students with mental health issues and more. Through her persistence, she made a big educational difference in the community. The legislator emphasized the importance of formal education about historical, cultural and current events. She supported programs promoting civic awareness, governance and volunteerism. In addition, the senator fought for the expansion of public library services that contribute to the education of the community.
Appointed co-chair of the NYC School Governance Task Force, she frequently hosted education forums. Parents, teachers, school administrators, students, human rights defenders, public organizations and community leaders expressed their opinions on improving the education system.
In 2009, the senator chaired the Committee on Mental Health and Development. She initiated 16 bills aimed at providing better treatment for people with mental illnesses. The senator also held a hearing on insurance coverage and the most effective treatment options for children with autism.
In 2009, Huntley was also one of 8 Democratic senators who voted against the same-sex marriage law. Two years later, the legislator changed her views and voted for the Marriage Equality Act, openly speaking in defense of the LGBT community.
During 2009 and 2010, Huntley worked hard to improve the lives of each of her voters. She has conducted various events and programs such as foreclosure seminars.
Scandal
In 2011, the New York Post wrote that Huntley is suspected of founding an alleged charitable organization partially financed by public funds. The following August, Huntley appeared at the Nassau County District Attorney’s office. In January 2013, the senator appeared in federal court in Brooklyn and pleaded guilty to fraud.
Huntley was found to have embezzled $87,000 in government grants. She also pleaded guilty to tampering with evidence. The politician was sentenced to one year and one day in prison.