Senator Helming Statement on 2022 State of the State Address

“Speeches like the State of the State are meant to be hopeful, and I am hopeful for the future. The devil is always in the details and I’ll be looking at them closely.  

There are things we need to do immediately, including stabilizing our health care system and hospital and nursing home workforce, and finally getting our rural communities the public health resources they need. The state has just expanded COVID testing sites to SUNY campuses. How about a testing site at Finger Lakes and Cayuga community colleges? 

I share the commitment to boosting our economy and workforce. This should include significantly reducing unemployment costs for small businesses, and manufacturing more critical products in New York State, including PPE.  

Accelerating the scheduled middle class tax cuts is great - let’s also provide additional meaningful relief to taxpayers and homeowners.  

In the face of rising violent crime across our state, it is more important than ever to protect public safety and back our law enforcement and first responders. 

Our children’s mental health is another priority for me and I was pleased to hear the Governor mention this in her speech. We must keep our kids in school and support all aspects of their health and well-being. 

As we begin a new legislative session, I will keep fighting for the 54^th District and a stronger New York.”