Subject: Key Priorities as 2013 Session gets Underway

With the Governor kicking off the 2013 Legislative Session on Wednesday with the annual State of the State Address, I wanted to take this opportunity to highlight some of my key priorities as the new Legislative Session gets underway.

Providing Tax Relief: Mandate relief continues to be a priority to me as counties, local municipalities and schools struggle with their budgets. I will also be redoubling my efforts to fight for additional tax relief at the State and local levels.

Creating Jobs: We must also focus on pursuing policise that will help revitalize our economy, strengthen small businesses and create thousands of good, new jobs for our local economy.

Reducing Wasteful Spending: Over the past two years, New York State has made significant progress in controlling overall spending. But there is clearly more that can be done to ensure a smarter, more efficient and effective government. That's why I will be continuing my fight to reduce government fraud and waste.

Throughout the year, please remember that I am always here to serve you, your family and our community. With the new Legislative District lines in effect, I will no longer be representing Montgomery County, which means I must close my Amsterdam district office. I expect to open a new office in Ballston Spa and will let you know the contact information when it is available. You can call my office at (800) 224-5201 or email Farley@nysenate.gov

As we embark on a New Year, our state and our local communities are all facing a number of serious challenges. But if we work together, I have every confidence that we can overcome these challenges, and ensure a brighter, stronger future for many years to come.