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Steve Hawley

Hawley's aunt, at 101, part of two historic marches in Seneca Falls

By Howard B. Owens

The woman sitting is Mary Simpson Smart. She is 101 years old. She was part of a woman's march in Seneca Falls in 1920 as a 5-year-old by her mother's side just before women were granted the right to vote. She was back in Seneca Falls on Sunday to join the women's march.

She is also Assemblyman Steve Hawley's aunt.

Smart was born and raised in Lyons. A graduate of Wellesley, she is pictured with Angela Daddabbo, of Auburn. Smart wanted to meet her after spotting her Wellesley sweatshirt.

"I was so grateful to have met her," Daddabbo said. "What a lady!"

Smart was one of the speakers at the event.

The Finger Lake Times profiled Smart earlier this month. She's led quite a life across the sweep of 20th century American history.

Hawley's mother, Mary's sister, Ellen, was also born in Lyons.

Smart isn't Hawley's only family tie to the Suffragette Movement. Ella Hawley Crossett, a relative on his father's side and from Warsaw, is commemorated on a large plaque in the State Capitol with Susan B. Anthony.

'Move Over' law expanded to protect volunteer firefighters

By Howard B. Owens

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) today announced an expansion of the “Move Over” Law designed to protect our police, tow trucks, emergency vehicles and now volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers.

The law, which has already been in effect for a number of years, requires drivers to move over one lane to give room and provide safety for first responders attending to a car accident, law enforcement stop or disabled vehicle.

“Anytime we can provide a safer environment for our selfless and dedicated first responders to do their job it is a good thing,” Hawley said. “Volunteer firefighters and emergency responders dedicate an extraordinary amount of time to protect and save the lives of residents in their community, many of whom are usually strangers.”

“Highways and high-speed roads are all dangerous places for police and emergency vehicles to operate with little room on the shoulder, so providing this extra space minimizes risk and will provide them the peace of mind that other drivers are a safe distance away,” Hawley said. “I applaud this expansion of the law and, as always, hope our men and women in blue and all first responders are safe while out there making Western New York a better place.”

Hawley says governor putting political ambition ahead of taxpayer interest

By Howard B. Owens

Press release:

“Gov. Cuomo’s theatrical and unnecessary State of the State Tour is an abuse of taxpayer money and alienates us as legislators, who will be ultimately responsible for vetting and voting on important legislation. It is shameful for the governor to ignore the Legislature and plan these speeches on session days due to a pay raise battle with members of the Assembly Majority, demeaning all legislators in the process.

“Nearly 200,000 residents have left New York for more tax-friendly states in the past year and a half, and that is embarrassing. Still, Gov. Cuomo’s State of the State speeches so far have done virtually nothing to address our outrageous tax burden, failing infrastructure and struggling small-business community. Clearly, Gov. Cuomo cares more about his 2020 presidential ambitions than his own constituents.”

Hawley reappointed Assistant Minority Leader, takes key role on Assembly Rules Committee

By Billie Owens

Press release: 

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) announced today that he has been reappointed Assistant Minority Leader of the Assembly and will sit on the Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, Insurance, Ways and Means and Rules committees.

“After a relaxing holiday season, I am excited to get back to work on behalf of the citizens in my district and continue to make strides rebuilding our infrastructure, securing crucial education funding, protecting our vets and fighting Albany corruption,” Hawley said. “I am overjoyed to have the great opportunity to serve on such important committees in the Assembly, and look forward to offering my expertise as a small-business owner when it comes to insurance and agriculture issues.”

This is the first term that Hawley will serve on the Rules Committee, which is the final stop for many bills before they reach the floor for a vote. It is also the group that controls many important operations of the House.

“The Assembly Rules Committee is one of the most important governing bodies in Albany, and I couldn’t be more honored to serve as one of its members,” Hawley said. “This committee is usually the final stop for legislation before it either comes to the floor for a vote or dies in committee. This is an excellent opportunity to safeguard upstate against radical and misguided legislation supported by downstate special interests, and I plan to do just that.”

Hawley wishes everyone a safe and happy holiday

By Howard B. Owens

Press release from Assemblyman Steve Hawley:

"As we approach the 2016 holiday season, I want to wish all my constituents and New Yorkers alike a safe and happy holiday season from the bottom of my heart. The holidays are one of the best times of the year to relax, exchange gifts and enjoy the many opportunities we have to be with family and friends. As we enjoy this special time of year, please take a moment to thank the thousands of servicemen and women who are overseas and unable to spend the holidays with their families. They and their predecessors’ sacrifices have made it possible for us to realize such an extraordinary and memorable time of year.

“As you give and receive gifts this year I encourage you to keep in mind that local families are still struggling in our area and many children are unsure whether they will be receiving any gifts. It is important for us to help the less fortunate and realize that a small donation will brighten a child’s day more than you can imagine. Please take advantage of some of the local opportunities to make a donation, and together we can build a stronger Western New York.”

  • The Salvation Army provides clothing and other necessities to those in need during the holiday season. Donate today by visiting http://empire.salvationarmy.org/.
  • Consider donating a holiday basket to a needy family through the Community Action of Orleans and Genesee by visiting http://www.caoginc.org/. 
  • Make a child’s Christmas wish come true by donating to Toys for Tots at www.toysfortots.org
  • Catholic Charities offers a wide array of volunteer opportunities geared toward the holidays at http://www.catholiccharitiesnyvolunteer.org/Holiday. 
  • Episcopal Charities offers food pantries, community kitchens and a wide variety of services during the holidays. Learn how to help at http://episcopalcharities-newyork.org/.     

Hawley told charity gaming law can be updated

By Howard B. Owens

Press release:

“After meeting with one of the governor’s top officials today in Albany, I was reassured that, through a collaborative effort between the governor’s office, the Majorities in both houses, the bill’s sponsors and the New York State Gaming Association, we would find a solution to the state’s outdated gaming laws and allow the Stafford Fire Department and tens of thousands of volunteers in our charities, service clubs, nonprofits, churches and schools to continue conducting their annual charity raffles.

“The governor’s office reiterated that they intend to help our local charities and fire departments and admit that the decision to veto the legislation was not an easy one. I am hopeful that we will resolve the situation sooner rather than later, and I will do everything in my power to make it so.”

Hawley blasts Cuomo for veto of gaming acts bill that would have helped local fundraisers

By Howard B. Owens

Press release:

 “I’m not sure if the governor is still half asleep on tryptophan from Thanksgiving, but it is unthinkable that he can morally and logically kill legislation that was passed 136 to 8 in the Assembly and 59 to 3 in the Senate. 

“Disrespectful and heartless doesn’t begin to describe Cuomo’s actions toward our tens of thousands of tireless volunteers in charities, churches and fire departments, who donate their time to improving their community and now have their hands tied when it comes to fundraising. Gov. Cuomo’s veto message claims the bill may be unconstitutional but our counsel here at the Assembly already ensured that the legislation was constitutional when it was drafted.”

“The Town of Stafford Fire Department has conducted their car raffle for roughly 70 years and now they are faced with a 300-percent budget increase without their fundraiser. This surely amounts to a tax hike for town residents who are already struggling under the nation’s highest taxes. Upstate fire departments are primarily volunteer and rely on these annual raffles for revenue and to fuel operation costs. Whereas downstate many firefighters are paid so this legislation isn’t as important to them. The veto further exemplifies the Upstate and Downstate divide and why ‘Two New Yorks’ should be put on the ballot.” 

“Actions like this are one of the reasons people are fleeing New York in droves. For a governor who cowardly avoids the Legislature to enact his policy agenda and perpetuates our state’s highest taxes in the nation, you’d think the least he could do was sign a non-controversial bill that helps charities raise money.”

Hawley bill to help with local fundraising finally hits governor's desk, awaiting signature

By Howard B. Owens

Press release:

One of Assemblyman Steve Hawley’s (R,C,I-Batavia) signature legislative accomplishments this past Legislative Session, The Charitable Gaming Act of 2016, has finally hit Gov. Cuomo’s desk and is awaiting his signature, which would make the bill a law, or his veto. The bill was delivered to the governor on Wednesday and he has 10 days to decide whether to sign or veto the legislation.

The bill, which Hawley and Assemblyman Schimminger (D-Buffalo) ushered through the house and Sen. Gallivan (R,C,I-Elma) sponsored in the Senate along with support from Sen. Michael Ranzenhofer and Sen. Robert Ortt, would allow  “raffles” to accept legal tender, credit and debit payment for their charitable auctions and games, and allow purchases toward the raffles to be made online. The new law would restore the Stafford Fire Department’s famous annual car raffle that ended last year after decades due to archaic provisions that restricted how the charity raffle could operate.

“I am excited that the ‘Charitable Gaming Act’ has finally hit the governor’s desk and is awaiting his approval,” Hawley said. “I worked diligently with colleagues in both houses to pass this legislation and it is crucial for fire departments, nonprofits and other charities that hold raffles and games to revise these archaic and outdated requirements, which hamper their ability to give back to the local community. I encourage all of my constituents and local charities to call or write Gov. Cuomo and urge him to sign this important bill. This will go a long way toward helping to restore the Stafford Fire Department’s annual car raffle.”

Hawley calls for safety first on Halloween

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) said the safety and well-being of trick-or-treaters must not be overlooked this Halloween, as many youngsters will be out in high volume, even after sunset. 

“Halloween is a great opportunity for kids and adults alike to show off their creativity, celebrate their favorite monsters, superheroes and celebrities, and enjoy all types of tasty treats; however, safety must come first,” Hawley said. “A little precaution goes a long way when there are so many young people out. Candy and costumes are important, but ensuring every child makes it home safely is the priority.”

Hawley offered some safety recommendations. He said flashlights for trick-or-treaters out after dusk will help them see and be seen as they move from home to home. Young children should be supervised by an adult, he said, while those old enough to go out without a parent should stay in groups. Parents should make sure their children know never to enter the home of a stranger and should set up a specific time they expect to hear from them.

Costumes should not restrict the vision of those seeking treats and if they are made of dark material, reflectors will help ensure drivers can see them crossing the street. And, for those who will be handing out candy this Halloween, be sure there is a clear walking path to your front door so revelers don’t trip over any lawn decorations.

“Fall fun is at its pinnacle during Halloween thanks to great parties, candy and the company of our friends and family. Please join me in making sure this Halloween is safe and enjoyable for everyone participating,” Hawley added.

Hawley continues to oppose pay raises for lawmakers

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) said he opposes pay raises for lawmakers, as the core function of the Legislature is helping New Yorkers improve their quality of life through a responsible budget and effective legislation, not making more money. 

Hawley also believes a more efficient legislative schedule, for example starting session at 9 a.m. and working until 5 p.m., three days per week instead of 59 days spread over six months, would enable the people’s work to be wrapped up by the end of March. 

“We need to return to what our Founding Fathers envisioned when our country was conceived, citizen representatives whose motivation for taking office was to serve their neighbors,” said Hawley. “We don’t need more money; we need an emphasis on stewardship, governance and efficiency. I am honored to serve the residents of the 139th district and all New Yorkers; I do not support a legislative pay raise at the expense of those I represent.”

Hawley also said he does not believe the Commission on Legislative, Judicial & Executive Compensation should be making a lawfully-binding pay raise recommendation to the Legislature. That decision, he said, should be up to those elected by the public.

“An embarrassing number of legislators have been found to be abusing the public trust. Until there are rock-solid reforms in place to ensure an end to corruption, bribery, fraud and pay-to-play politics, we should not even entertain the thought of a raise,” said Hawley.

Hawley believes that people should run in order to advocate for their neighbors and not because they are seeking a lucrative occupation. In order to recruit citizens who are in it for the right reasons and deter future corruption, he has fought for legislation that would do away with pensions for statewide elected officials convicted of a felony (A377). Hawley pledged to continue fighting for ethics reform during the upcoming session.

Hawley gets NRA and Rochester chamber endorsements in re-election bid

By Billie Owens

Press release:

As part of his re-election bid for the 139th Assembly District, Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) announced today that he has been endorsed by the National Rifle Association (NRA) and the Rochester Chamber of Commerce. Hawley, a vocal voice for upstate gun owners and small businesses, has also received an "A" rating from the NRA, an endorsement from the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), and a rating of 88 percent from Unshackle Upstate, solidifying him as one of the strongest Second Amendment and small-business proponents in the entire State Legislature.

"Supporting the Second Amendment and the rights of law-abiding gun owners in Western New York has been part of my platform since I originally ran for the Assembly," Hawley said. "When the NY SAFE Act was rammed through the Legislature in 2013, I was adamantly opposed and I still fight its unconstitutionality today. Hunting and target shooting are part of our area's culture, and if I am privileged enough to serve another two years in the Assembly, I will defend those rights with everything I have. I am humbled by the NRA's endorsement and will continue to support their efforts."

"As a member of the small-business community for over four decades, I know the hardships faced by companies right here in Western New York,” Hawley said “While more influence and political gimmicks continue to be funneled downstate, the lifeblood of upstate communities, our family-owned small businesses, continue to suffer and that is absolutely unacceptable. Albany's tens of thousands of pages of rules and regulations suck the life out of small businesses trying to sustain a profit and keep from outsourcing local jobs. I am honored to have the endorsement of the Rochester Chamber of Commerce and will continue to fight for New York's business community upon re-election to the Assembly."

Hawley reminds everyone that October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) is reminding residents that Saturday, Oct. 1, begins Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Every October, pink streaks of hair, shirts and even cleats on sports stars help raise awareness the devastating disease. 

Cancer is a scary word. In New York, more than 15,000 women and 150 men are diagnosed with breast cancer annually. Hawley is encouraging his residents, women and men alike, to visit their doctors to get screened for this disease, as early detection is crucial to survival.

“I encourage everyone to talk with their doctors and schedule exams. Our community is so fortunate to have many organizations dedicated to fighting breast cancer, including the Breast Cancer Coalition of Rochester (BCCR). Preventive measures and early detection can be life-saving decisions,” Hawley said. “The health and well-being of our daughters, sisters, wives and loved ones is important. I encourage everyone to learn more and get involved in the fight against breast cancer.”

BCCR is devoted to sharing information and supporting those touched by a breast cancer diagnosis. BCCR efforts include hosting fundraisers to raise money for research, as well offering educational seminars and support programs. Its Peer Advocates Lending Support (PALS) program helps connect breast cancer survivors with those new to the disease.

BCCR covers and provides services for a nine county region and is easily accessible via a variety of methods. Visit http://bccr.org/programs/, call 585-473-8177 or email info@bccr.org to learn more about the programs and services available from the Breast Cancer Coalition of Rochester.

Hawley: More corruption charges show need for change

By Billie Owens

Here's a statement released today by Assemblyman Steve Hawley:

“In recent months we have watched details surrounding the state’s dysfunctional economic development programs unfold. Today, two individuals with close ties to the governor and his administration have been charged with alleged bid-rigging and bribery. The time for change – dramatic change – is now.

“Every investigation surrounding public officials, now one including Joseph Percoco and Alain Kaloyeros, has highlighted a desperate need for reform. Entrusted with the public’s confidence to effect positive change, I am calling for a comprehensive and meaningful response to these issues.

“I will continue to fight for increased accountability and transparency; the status quo must be changed.”

Hawley receives high praise from business community

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) received high praise this week from two organizations dedicated to encouraging small businesses in our state.

The New York small-business advocacy organization Unshackle Upstate and the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) both released their rankings of legislators’ performances in Albany and how those performances have affected New York business owners. Hawley received approval from both organizations, scoring an 88/100 from Unshackle Upstate and a 100% from the NFIB.

“It is an honor to be recognized by the NFIB and Unshackle Upstate in such high regard. I always keep the interests of my local business owners first and foremost when representing my district in Albany,” Hawley said.

“As a small-business owner for over four decades, I know the challenges faced by our state’s business community and use my knowledge and resources to fight for solutions that will spur economic growth and create jobs. I hope to continue to earn the praise bestowed upon me this week and to continue doing the business community proud.”

Hawley announces much-needed disaster relief coming to local farmers

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Due to harsh drought conditions experienced by many of New York’s farmers, Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) today announced that Genesee, Monroe and Orleans counties have been designated natural disaster areas and are eligible for assistance through the United States Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency.

State officials will be conducting on-site assessments of the damage to local farms and working with Cornell University experts to devise recovery solutions.

“Farmers are the backbone of New York’s already excellent, diversified and growing agriculture sector,” Hawley said. “As the former owner and operator of our family farm for many years, I can personally attest to the determination of our famers to battle ever-changing weather and devastating floods and drought in Western New York.

"It is important to protect the livelihood of our producers and assist them when unforeseen circumstances threaten their prosperity. I am pleased the federal government is offering our famers this much needed assistance.”

Further information and a list of services available can be found here.

Hawley announces more than $2m for Elba drinking water improvement project

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) today announced that the Village of Elba has been awarded more than $2 million to fund a drinking water improvement project that will help bolster the area’s clean water supply, fix and replace old pipes, sewer lines, treatment plants and assist with design and construction costs.

The grants are being distributed to various municipalities throughout the state as part of New York’s Water Infrastructure Improvement Act.

“Ensuring a clean and bountiful water supply for our citizens is one of the fundamental responsibilities of our state and local governments,” Hawley said. “Unfortunately, many pipes, sewer lines and treatment facilities were installed decades ago and were not made with the same durable materials we use today.

"As a result, New York’s infrastructure is failing, which places an extraordinary financial burden on local governments that are already handcuffed due to state mandates. I am pleased to see that the state has stepped up and is providing over two-thirds of the estimated cost of this project, which is vital for the health and well-being of our residents.”

Seats still available for Hawley's annual Patriots Trip

By Howard B. Owens

Press release:

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) today announced that about 30 seats are still available for his Ninth Annual Patriot Trip to Washington D.C. The trip is open to local veterans and their family members with priority going to first time attendees. The trip will take place September 15-18 and will include a multitude of memorials and historic sites honoring veterans in the D.C. area.

“This is one of my favorite events of the entire year and I am honored to give back to the brave men and women and their families who have fought for our country’s freedom,” Hawley said. “This is an amazing opportunity for an affordable price and I encourage local veterans and their loved ones to join us on this amazing journey.”

Attractions Hawley plans to visit this year include:

  • WWII Memorial
  • Korean War Memorial
  • Vietnam War Memorial
  • Iwo Jima – The Marine Corps Memorial
  • American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial
  • Air Force Memorial
  • 911 Memorial at the Pentagon
  • Arlington National Cemetery, including the Changing of the Guard
  • Wreath Laying at the Tomb of the Unknowns – Vietnam Veterans

Only about 30 seats remain and are available on a first come, first served basis. If you or a veteran you know want more information about this year’s Patriot Trip IX, please call 585-589-5780 or email carneyj@assembly.state.ny.us.

Hawley promotes 'Our Blue Day' to honor those in law enforcement

By Howard B. Owens

While at the GOP convention in Cleveland, Assemblyman Steve Hawley said he decided to organize an effort to honor the men and women of law enforcement, so he called on people in New York on Friday to wear blue.

Yesterday afternoon, Hawley, along with County Legislator Ray Cianfrini and City Councilman Adam Tabelski met at the Sheriff's Office on Park Road, Batavia, to tell representatives of the Sheriff's Office, State Police and Batavia PD that they appreciate their service to the community.

"I couldn't be prouder of what you do every single day, whether you're in the City of Batavia, whether you're in the County of Genesee or in Monroe County or the State of New York," Hawley said. "It's not an easy job. It never has been. When you put on that badge and uniform today more than ever you never know what's going to happen."

Hawley's call for support of local law enforcement comes in the wake of tragedies in Dallas and Baton Rouge, La.

"I can't imagine what you go through every time you put on the badge," Hawley said.

Tabelski said he appreciating the dedication police officers bring to their jobs.

"When you're hired as a police officer, it's more than just a job," Tabelski said. "It's a calling. It's something you are passionate about. We know about the difficulties you have to deal with and all the inconveniences you have to deal with, a lot more than just having to wear long sleeves on a hot day, so on behalf of the city, I just want to say, 'thank you.' "

Below, Hawley with members of the California Highway Patrol in Cleveland (photo submitted by Steve Hawley).

The staff at Tompkins Financial also expressed their support Friday by wearing blue.

Staff of Rosicki, Rosicki & Associates, P.C., Law Offices on Harvester Avenue.

Assemblyman Hawley urges New Yorkers to wear blue this Friday in show of support for law enforcement

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Following a string of deadly shootings against law enforcement in Dallas and Baton Rouge, La., in recent weeks, Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) has reiterated his full support of law enforcement and is encouraging New Yorkers to wear blue on Friday in a massive wave of support for police officers.

Hawley emphasized the need for unity in these frightening times and inspired constituents to stand behind those who put their lives on the line to protect us each day.

“The recent attacks against police officers in Dallas and Baton Rouge have been nothing short of tragic and a painful reflection of the evil that still exists in society,” Hawley said. “In these tumultuous times, the best solution is to come together and show our support for the men and women who put on their uniform every day not knowing what dangers they will inevitably face.

"They are the frontline protectors of justice and order in our community and deserve nothing short of our utmost gratitude and respect. Please join me in recognizing the heroism of our police officers and participate in ‘Our Blue Day’ on Friday by wearing blue in support of our friends fighting crime. They need our encouragement and backing now more than ever.”

Assemblyman Hawley announces results of 2016 Legislative Survey

By Billie Owens

Press release:

On Thursday, Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) released the results of his legislative survey mailer that was distributed to households during the winter.

The survey covered topics across a plethora of platforms and state issues, including: ethics reform, infrastructure, jobs, education, paid-family leave and taxes.

“I am proud to announce the results of my 2016 Legislative Survey and I plan to use the feedback I received to formulate policy proposals and my legislative platform if I am reelected to the Assembly next term,” Hawley said.

“It is one of the highest honors of my life to represent my constituents and address their questions and concerns. The overall results of my survey indicate that my constituents believe the state is not headed in the right direction and we are falling short on a number of issues.

"I will continue to fight to see that we do right by the people of our state and stop catering to downstate special interests and New York City politicians.”

ASSEMBLYMAN STEVE HAWLEY: 2016 LEGISLATIVE SURVEY

     1.) How do you feel about the direction in which New York State is headed?

  • Right Direction            16.2%
  • Wrong Direction            75.3%

      2.) What issue should be the top priority of New York State government in 2016?

  • Education                                                            11.2%
  • Economic Development/Job Creation            23.2%
  • Cutting Taxes                                                            44.8%
  • Improving NY’s Business Environment             23.2%
  • Ethics Reform in Government                        30.9%

     3.) The state’s minimum wage increased to $9/hour on Dec. 31, 2015. Many have called for an increase to $15/hour over the next few years. Economists predict an increase to $15/hour will result in the loss of between 200,000 and 500,000 jobs in New York State. What is your opinion about the state’s minimum wage?

  • The increase to $9/hour is fine                                                                        61.4%
  • Minimum wage should be raised slightly (less than $12.50/hour)                        25.1%
  • Minimum wage should be increased to $15/hour                                                6.9%
  • Minimum wage should be higher than $15/hour                                                0.4%

    4.) New York has made recent downstate commitments to a new Tappan Zee Bridge ($4 billion), renovating LaGuardia Airport ($4 billion), and funding the Metropolitan Transportation Authority ($8 billion). In 2016, how should available money be distributed to repair New York’s aging roads, bridges & infrastructure?

  • Spend available infrastructure money equally across New York State            29.3%
  • Spend a greater portion of infrastructure money on upstate projects to balance  previous downstate spending                                                                                     44.8%
  • Spend all available money on upstate projects, downstate has already received its fair share                                                                                                            22.8%

    5.) Census data shows that more people leave New York each year than any other state. In your opinion, what is the biggest factor causing people to leave New York for another state?

  • High cost of living                                                38.2%
  • Lack of jobs or business opportunities            31.3%
  • Property taxes                                                            49.0%
  • Weather                                                            5.4%

   6.)  What is the best way to create more jobs in New York State?

  • Lower taxes on businesses                                                24.7%
  • Eliminate regulations and red tape                                    39.8%
  • Lower taxes across the board                                                48.3%
  • Open casinos                                                                        1.5%                                               
  • Rely on state grant programs like START-UP NY            1.2%

    7.)  Standardized tests in our schools – part of the Common Core Curriculum – have been a controversial topic among parents, teachers and education professionals. More than 200,000 students in New York State opted out of taking the exams last year. In your opinion, what should be done to address Common Core?

  • Nothing, children should take the tests and adapt to the program            2.3%
  • Stop giving the tests until the Common Core program is fixed            29.0%
  • Continue the tests while working to address flaws in the program            21.6%
  • Stop standardized tests in schools, they take away from the learning environment 37.1%

    8.)  Community colleges offer students a valuable bridge toward careers and future education. Some officials have proposed the idea of providing free community college to students in New York State. What are your thoughts on this proposal?

  • Free community college is an important measure that should be pursued            7.7%
  • Students attending community colleges deserve more assistance from the state, but not their entire tuition                                                                                    35.1%
  • Taxpayers cannot afford to provide this financial commitment at this time            56.0%

    9.)  While students and families across New York face increasing tuition costs and college debt, some legislators have proposed the DREAM Act – a taxpayer-funded tuition assistance program for illegal immigrants. How do you feel about the DREAM Act?

  • Support            5.8%
  • Oppose            91.5%
  • N/A                        2.7%

    10.)  Some state leaders have proposed 12 weeks of paid family leave to become law as part of this year’s state budget. Do you support this proposal, and if so, how do think this should be funded?

  • Yes, I support this proposal but it should be paid by the employee through a deduction                                                                                                 36.3%
  • Yes, I support this proposal but the employer should pay for it                      6.9%
  • Yes, I support this proposal but the state should pay for this program            5.4%
  • I do not support this proposal                                                                   50.2%

    11.)  Do you support the elimination of pension and retirement benefits for elected public officials who are convicted of felony corruption charges?

  • Support            90.0%
  • Oppose            3.1%

                        N/A                        6.9%

     12.)  Governor Cuomo has pledged to limit outside income for legislators to 15% of the base salary for Assembly members ($11,925). Do you support the limiting of outside income for elected state officials?

  • Yes, I support limiting outside income to $11,925 per year                        18.9%
  • No, the idea of a citizen-legislator is important and we shouldn’t limit outside income                                                                                                            58.7%
  • Yes, we should ban all outside income and state legislators should work year round and full-time                                                                                    16.2%

     13.)  Do you support term limits for legislative leaders (i.e. Speaker of the Assembly, Majority and Minority Leader of both the Assembly and Senate)?

  • Support            90.3%
  • Oppose            5.8%

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