We were off to a fresh, positive start in January, I was optimistic that we would address many key issues to help our businesses and families throughout the state.

However, the 2008 legislative session brought with it many unplanned changes. I am certain that no one could have ever guessed that we would have seen a change in two of the top office holders in the state government. There was a change in the Governor’s office and long time Senate Majority Leader Joe Bruno decided to retire. At the conclusion of the session, however, many key issues remain unaddressed and remain on my priority list when returning next session.

While there was much discussion, I am very disappointed that the Democrat-controlled Assembly would not let a real solution to our out-of-control property tax situation come to the floor for a vote. Instead of taking a serious and bipartisan look at reforming our state’s broken property tax system, the Assembly majority put forth a risky and reckless tax hike. While the plan looked good on paper, careful analysis revealed that out of the $2.7 billion that would have been collected, only $1.7 billion was actually slated to provide a small bit of relief to an even smaller number of our residents. The most troubling part of the legislation was that a whopping $1 billion dollars in new taxes were being collected and not appropriated, thus increasing spending once again. We don’t need to increase our spending; we need to learn to live within our means, just like the families and businesses we represent. Everyone has had to do some belt tightening; I believe our state government should set the example.

During a special session called by the Governor in August, I joined my colleagues in the Assembly reached across party lines to join with the majority in our house and with our colleagues in the Senate to pass legislation aimed at easing our state’s growing fiscal crisis. We reduced the overall spending by $427 million. This was a positive step forward in reducing our state’s bad spending habits and something we need to build on when we return in January.

Still high on our list of priorities is the rising and out-of-control cost of health care. We must change the way we think and deal with our current health care situation. Health care needs to be affordable to all. I have joined my conference in supporting many plans that would offer adequate and affordable health care to our residents.

I will continue my fight to work to deliver the changes we need – tax relief, more jobs and to continue holding the line on excessive spending. I have never voted for any tax increase or unfunded mandate since taking office. In fact I have voted against over $11.5 Billion in new taxes and fees proposed by the majority party in the Assembly.

I bring over 30 years of business experience with me to Albany. As the ranking Republican member of the Assembly Small Business Committee, I will continue to fight to make New York more business-friendly.
Small businesses are responsible for 85% of jobs created in New York State and as “Big Box” companies continue to downsize, it will be our small business owners, our entrepreneurs that will lead are economy in a positive direction.

            I want to make sure your state government remains
        accountable for its actions, and we will continue
        establishing a more transparent system so residents can
        keep track of our progress.

I plan on continuing my focus to make New York a place where everyone will want to live, work and raise a family.

My colleagues and I know we are here to represent you, and that the issues we deal with every day are much too sensitive to be affected by partisan politics. Serving all of the constituents of the 134^th Assembly District is and will remain by motivation.

I welcome any comments or suggestions. Feel free to contact my office at (585) 225-4190 with any legislative matters you would like to address.