ALBANY, N.Y. -- Governor Andrew Cuomo embraced another gun control proposal on Sunday, backing a measure that extends background checks from three to 10 days when buying a firearm.

"We have our children being mowed down while they're sitting in classrooms, and we're trying to get the most basic concepts into law, which is making sure background checks are completed," said Sen. Mike Gianaris (D - Queens).

Cuomo's support for the measure comes after he's spent the last several weeks railing on Congress to act. Now he's pushing state lawmakers in Albany to take up the first major gun control measure since the SAFE Act passed in 2013. Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie's chamber passed a version of the bill last week and said he would welcome it in the budget agreement.

"A lot of times, you don't like to saddle the budget done with policy, but sometimes it's necessary," Heastie said. "If we can get it done, I'd be happy to."

But some Republicans are not convinced. Senator John DeFrancisco responded sarcastically and referenced Cuomo's appearance last week at a student walkout protest over gun violence.

"A tragedy happens and, how can he possibly politically benefit from this?" DeFrancisco said. "Let me think. Well, how about another gun control bill? The timing is perfect; he's laying down on the ground in solidarity with students who are leaving school during school hours."

Other Republicans in the Senate say they want to focus on school security, spending money for technology upgrades and armed resource officers.

"Well, we know we have the toughest gun laws in the country. We look at some of the other states and we know there are illegal weapons coming up from other states," said Sen. Pat Gallivan (R - Elma). "I'd like to see us focus on gun interdiction efforts. I'd like to see us focus and continue doing what we can to ensure school safety."

Cuomo would have to convince Republicans soon. The budget is scheduled to pass by the end of next week.