Senator Nozzolio Legislation: Give Citizens The Right To Vote On Taxes

Albany— In an effort to improve the accountability of state government and allow citizens the opportunity to provide input on changes that impact their family budgets, New York State Senator Michael F. Nozzolio (R-Fayette) today announced that he will introduce legislation to establish a State Constitutional Amendment that will give voters the right to accept or reject any yearly tax increase.

“More Accountability and responsibility by our state government must be a priority, Senator Nozzolio said. “It is important that state government lead by example and this new Constitutional Amendment would give taxpayers a direct say about the budgetary changes that influence their daily lives.”

Senator Nozzolio’s State Constitutional Amendment to provide the power of taxation back in the hands of the people where it belongs must be passed by two consecutive sessions of the State Legislature and then be brought before the voters of New York State for a final vote.

Under this proposal, voters will be given the right to accept or reject any yearly tax increase beyond 2 percent.

Senator Nozzolio has long championed legislation designed to increase New York citizen’s role in state government. Senator Nozzolio is the original sponsor of legislation to enact Initiative and Referendum in New York State. Initiative and Referendum provides the public with an opportunity to participate in making laws.

“Runaway government spending should not be enabled by higher and higher taxes. It is essential that the state government become more accountable and this amendment will be an important first step in providing better management of state spending rather than the significant tax increases we have seen throughout the years,” Nozzolio concluded.

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