2013 Legislative Survey Results

2013 Legislative Survey Results:

1. Tax relief - Supporters of broad-based tax relief say cutting taxes is necessary to make New York more competitive and create more jobs. Opponents assert that broad-based tax cuts disproportionately favor the wealthy and worsen state budget deficits. Where do you stand on the issue of tax relief?

Support: 61.0%       Oppose: 22.3%        Undecided: 14.4%              No Answer: 2.3%

2. Common Core - Common Core has been the subject of controversy and concern. Supporters say the new standards ensure students are better prepared for college and a career. Opponents cite concerns of loss of local control, over-testing of students and personal information being shared. Where do you stand on Common Core?

Support: 24.0%       Oppose: 53.3%        Undecided: 21.3%              No Answer: 1.4%

3. Protecting horses - Senator Marchione sponsored legislation preventing horses from being transported to slaughter for the purposes of human consumption. Supporters say it will protect horses from brutal and inhumane treatment and protect public health. Opponents cite concerns over the potential increased costs imposed on family farmers that have horses. What is your view on this legislation?

Support: 56.3%       Oppose: 20.6%        Undecided: 21.5%              No Answer: 1.6%

4. SAFE Act - Governor Cuomo said the SAFE Act will reduce gun crimes and protect New Yorkers from mass shootings. Opponents of the SAFE Act (including Senator Marchione) say it infringed on the Second Amendment, criminalized law-abiding New Yorkers and increased the costs of firearm ownership. What is your opinion of the SAFE Act?

Support: 34.4%       Oppose: 60.9%        Undecided: 3.8%                No Answer: 0.9%

5. Unfunded mandate relief - Senator Marchione supports banning unfunded state mandates that drive up local property taxes. Supporters say it would reduce the cost of government and reduce local property taxes. Opponents assert that mandates provide necessary services. What is your opinion on a ban of unfunded state mandates?

Support: 73.7%       Oppose: 13.4%        Undecided: 10.9%              No Answer: 2.0%

6. Equal pay for equal work - Women earn, on average, 77 cents for every dollar a man makes, so Senator Marchione voted for legislation to end wage inequality. Supporters say it would ensure women finally receive equal pay for equal work. Opponents assert the legislation is unnecessary due to existing federal laws. What is your opinion on equal pay for equal work?

Support: 76.8%       Oppose: 13.3%         Undecided: 8.9%               No Answer: 1.0%

7. Expansion of broadband (two parts) - Some local communities lack access to broadband, making it difficult for families and small businesses to receive high-speed Internet service. Senator Marchione cosponsored legislation to provide tax credits for broadband expansion into rural unserved communities. Do you currently have access to broadband?

Yes: 74.4%              No: 19.8%                 No Answer: 5.8%

If you receive broadband service, how would you rate it?

Excellent: 20.5%     Good: 55.1%            Fair: 19.4%                Poor: 5.0%   

8. Fracking - Hydraulic fracturing (“fracking”) involves extracting natural gas from the ground by fracturing rock with pressurized liquid. Supporters say it may lead to more jobs and reduce dependence on foreign oil. Opponents cite concerns of possible groundwater contamination and negative environmental impacts. Where do you stand on fracking?

Support: 44.4%       Oppose: 40.4%        Undecided: 14.4%     No Answer: 0.8%

9. Casino Gambling - This fall, voters approved casino expansion. Supporters say new casinos will boost the economy, create more jobs and generate revenue. Opponents cite concerns over an increase in problem gambling and crime, along with negative impacts on local quality of life. Where do you stand on casino gambling?

Support: 34.9%       Oppose: 55.2%        Undecided: 9.0%       No Answer: 0.9%