![Senator Headshot](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_small/public/%2811-18-08%29%20Seward-HS-050.jpg?itok=JIw55FSU)
Governor Backs Down on Tax and Fee Hikes
James L. Seward
March 11, 2009
ALBANY, 03/11/09 – Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I- Oneonta) commented today on Governor Paterson’s decision to back down on some tax and fee hikes proposed in his budget.
“Under pressure from an outraged public that he wants to tax everything from haircuts, bowling, ski lift tickets, clothing, satellite and cable TV, grocery store coupons, gym memberships, music downloads, movie tickets -- to name a few -- the governor just backed down on more than $1 billion in proposed taxes. That’s a good start -- but more need to be dropped -- like a higher state gas tax.
“The governor hasn’t backed down on his plan to raise property taxes by eliminating the STAR tax rebates and cutting the value of the STAR property tax exemption. The rebate checks alone would provide $1.7 billion to middle-class families, a real stimulus plan.
“I opposed all of the governor’s taxes, and joined senate Republicans in offering a better plan. It rejects ALL of his $6 billion in new taxes and fees; includes a spending cap to hold down future state spending; and helps upstate businesses create new jobs. We propose less debt, and agency cuts and consolidations. It’s time the governor take up these initiatives.
“Today the governor cancelled a planned leaders’ meeting, continuing the secrecy surrounding this year’s budget process. The three Democrats from New York City need to come out from behind closed doors and tell the people of this state what they plan to do about the rest of the budget. With April 1st only three weeks away, the clock is ticking. A late state budget will only exacerbate the state’s financial problems.”
Share this Article or Press Release
Newsroom
Go to NewsroomOneonta's Historic Damaschke Field to Receive Much Needed Facelift
September 10, 2018
![Senator James Seward announces a $1 million state grant to help fund major renovations and improvements at historic Damaschke Field. From left, Oneonta City Mayor Gary Herzig, Oneonta Outlaws owner Gary Laing, Senator Seward.](/sites/default/files/styles/760x377/public/press-release/main-image/seward_-_damaschke_1_-_09-06-18.jpg?itok=vUxFxoQ8)
Seward Delivers $25,000 Grant to Aid Delaware County Sheriff's Office
September 10, 2018
![Senator Seward (right) congratulates Delaware County Sheriff Craig DuMond after announcing a $25,000 state grant to help cover costs associated with a new investigator’s vehicle within the department’s Drug Enforcement Unit.](/sites/default/files/styles/760x377/public/press-release/main-image/web_8.jpg?itok=L6E7W3Ji)
Seward Secures $50,000 Grant for Middletown History Center
September 5, 2018
![Senator James L. Seward announces a $50,000 state grant to help fund development of the Middletown History Center. From left, Senator Seward, Historical Society of the Town of Middletown (HSM) President Diane Galusha, Town of Middletown Supervisor Patrick Davis, Village of Margaretville Mayor Diana Cope, Village of Fleischmanns Mayor Donald Kearney.](/sites/default/files/styles/760x377/public/press-release/main-image/web_7.jpg?itok=oBFKNFPe)