Statement from New York State Senator Rich Funke

“Like many things in Albany, the process was far from perfect, but we are leaving this year's legislative session having delivered on many of our region's top priorities. 
 
We finally secured ethics reform that will strip corrupt officials of their taxpayer-funded pensions, scale back the influence of money in politics, and increase transparency and accountability in our government. We worked across the aisle to produce a comprehensive report on zombie homes in our region, then took legislative action to speed up the intervention process and prevent these properties from dragging down the neighborhoods around them. After several districts in our region found elevated lead in students' drinking water, we delivered the nation's first statewide legislation to require regular testing in all schools. We even secured over $500 million for affordable and supportive housing projects to help get our homeless off the street while better protecting taxpayers along the way. I am grateful to have had meaningful bills pass both houses, including the first increase in total disability pay for volunteer firefighters since 1998 and our program to move fresh produce from farms to those in need. Despite these accomplishments, I’m frustrated that some New York City politicians killed Uber and Lyft for Upstate by rejecting the Senate’s common sense solution that would have created jobs, enhanced transit options, and made the road safer for all of us. 
 
The legislative session may be over, but our work on behalf of Monroe and Ontario counties continues every day. It's an honor and a privilege to represent you. Together I know we'll never stop working to make Albany work better for all of us."