Griffo statement on governor’s State of the State Address

New York State Sen. Joseph Griffo, R-C-Rome, released the following statement today regarding the governor’s State of the State Address: 

“The governor unveiled her broad perspective for New York State and the approach that she would like to take to undertake this objective. I am prepared to work with the governor and will consider and examine what she has proposed with an open mind as this year’s legislative session gets underway and work on the state budget begins. 

While I am pleased that the governor has proposed addressing the flawed changes made to the state’s bail law and providing more support for our neglected mental health system, I question if she will actually push for rather than merely propose the common-sense changes that need to be made to address the issues affecting our state. 

Initially, I am concerned with the governor’s housing proposals because, much like what was done with the siting of energy projects in communities, local control will be stifled and restricted. New York has always been a home rule state. We should respect and not restrict local input and authority. Additionally, many of the policies that the governor has offered relative to energy are being proposed in an unrealistic and unreasonable construct and time period. 

I understand that there is still much work ahead of us, and I recognize that many New Yorkers, regardless of their political persuasion or beliefs, are facing challenges. We see and hear about it every day. People and families continue to flee the state because they can’t afford to live here, they don’t feel safe, and they don’t feel there is opportunity here. Businesses are being crushed by stifling regulations. Our infrastructure is crumbling, and local governments are forced to deal with costly and burdensome mandates from the state.  

It doesn’t have to be this way. New York can have a brighter, stronger and more prosperous future. Practical, comprehensive and common-sense approaches and solutions to address the issues affecting our state must be our priority, as I have regularly advocated. I will continue to submit and advance constructive proposals and ideas for consideration that can help to stop the exodus from our state.” 

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