Statement on 2019 Legislative Session

ALBANY, 06/21/19 -- State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I/Ref – Oneonta) today commented on the close of the 2019 legislative session:

“At the start of the 2019 legislative session I pledged to advance policies designed to improve New York’s economy, help reduce the crushing tax burden, and combat population loss.  Unfortunately, that agenda did not mesh with the New York City-centric politics that ran rampant at the Capitol.

“I pushed for property tax relief, broadband expansion for rural areas, help for our small businesses, and better protections for crime victims.  Instead, we were treated to $1 billion in new taxes, driver’s licenses and free college for illegal immigrants, New York City style rent control, the demise of property tax relief checks, and unfriendly farm labor regulations which will hurt agriculture.

“On a positive note, a permanent property tax cap was enacted and the senate approved key bills to improve limousine safety and crack down on robocalls.  Education aid dollars also increased, however, a better distribution formula is needed to ensure high-need, low-wealth districts receive their fair share.

“In the months ahead, I will be meeting with constituents to discuss what is needed to improve their daily lives, upgrade our communities, and make New York a destination location rather than a departure point.  Moving forward, I will continue to focus on the concerns important to those who live and work in the 51^st Senate District.”

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