Crystal Peoples-Stokes will take up the title of Assembly Majority Leader, a powerful post in an Albany that will be newly dominated by Democrats when legislators return.

The Buffalo assemblywoman has served since 2003 and was appointed to this seat by Speaker Carl Heastie of Yonkers.

Peoples-Stokes will replace Joe Morelle, who is heading from the Rochester area to Washington after winning election to the U.S. House.

New responsibilities for Peoples-Stokes will include "the day-to-day operational duties of the Assembly chamber, including overseeing the floor during debates."

When 2019 session begins, Democrats will enjoy a large majority after gains in the state Senate and sustained advantages in Peoples-Stokes's Assembly. The majorities are expected to enable the passage of long-sought provisions backed by liberals, ranging from making it easier to vote, overhauling campaign finance regulations, bolstering abortion rights and criminal justice reforms.