The first few days of session are always full of anticipation, excitement and potential. The pageantry and ceremony of the opening days are welcome reminders the New York State Legislature has an important role to play in shaping the lives of millions of people, some of whom were on hand at the Capitol to hear their elected representatives speak about how they plan to make New York stronger. The energy in the room is infectious, and it reinforces the reasons we are all here, to serve the people who gave us a job.

For 18 years I have been proud and fortunate to represent the great people of the 120th Assembly District. This year, I have the incredible honor and privilege of serving not only the residents of New York, but also my conference in my new role as Assembly Minority Leader. It is not a responsibility I take lightly, and I will work vigorously to defend the interests of my conference as well as the farmers, small business owners, middle-class taxpayers and residents they represent.  

We have a lot of work to do this year. We are facing a public safety crisis due to major changes in criminal justice law. Painted as reform, these laws are both inconsistent and inherently unfair. They are not what the governor’s office and legislative majorities promised. They make New Yorkers less safe and are the antithesis of what a legislature is supposed to do — protect the people they represent. We will push hard to remedy these issues before they spiral further out of hand.

Our Conference strongly believes New York’s full potential is being prevented by mismanagement, overspending and a lack of awareness for the needs of residents struggling day-to-day. As such, we are hopeful we can take steps to regain the economic prosperity we once enjoyed and get New York off the lists of worst states to retire, own a business and pay taxes. Our legislative proposals for this year include:

• Reversing bail reform laws that allow dangerous individuals to walk the streets;

• Closing the state’s $6.1 million budget deficit;

• Fixing New York’s crippling taxes holding back economic growth;

• Reducing the state’s $57 billion debt burden; and

• Making New York more affordable and stemming its massive outmigration problem.

I am eager to get to work. With proper fiscal discipline, good communication and a cooperative spirit I am confident that we will strengthen New York.

If you have any questions or comments on this or any other state issue, or if you would like to be added to my mailing list or receive my newsletter, please contact my office. My office can be reached by mail at 200 N. Second St., Fulton, NY 13069, by email at [email protected] or by calling 315-598-5185.