Statement from Senator George Borrello on Governor Hochul’s State of the State Address

“Today, Governor Hochul delivered her State of the State address, outlining her vision for New York. While she touched on some important topics like affordability and mental health, her proposals raise more questions than answers, and there are glaring omissions that can’t be ignored.

It’s encouraging to see some focus on affordability, but these proposals fall flat without addressing rising costs in other areas. Middle-class tax cuts, inflation refund checks, and an expanded Child Tax Credit may sound promising, but they will mean little to families already burdened by skyrocketing expenses. The Climate Act mandates could cost New York taxpayers hundreds of billions of dollars and raise utility bills by as much as 64 percent. Small businesses in New York are being crushed by costly regulations which are ultimately passed onto consumers. Without tackling these significant cost drivers, these proposals risk being little more than temporary fixes that fail to deliver meaningful relief for New Yorkers.

The Governor didn’t address ending New York’s reckless sanctuary status or cooperating with federal authorities to deport those accused or convicted of crimes. Most New Yorkers support these changes and ignoring them puts public safety at risk and leaves us at odds with federal law.

Even worse was the lack of any proposal to fix dangerous bail reform laws. The governor didn’t propose repealing them or adding a dangerousness standard, which 49 other states use to keep violent offenders off the streets. Every day, more New Yorkers are hurt or killed because of this reckless law. It’s infuriating to see headlines about repeat offenders with dozens of arrests still walking free. This failure to act emboldens criminals and puts innocent lives in danger.

It was disappointing that there was no mention of a new gaming compact with the Seneca Nation. This issue has been unresolved for over a year. The Seneca Nation is a vital partner in Western New York, and it’s frustrating that the state hasn’t negotiated in good faith. The Nation has been ready to work collaboratively but has faced unnecessary delays from the state.

An area on which I agree with the Governor is mental health. Expanding criteria for involuntary commitment and strengthening Kendra’s Law are steps I’ve supported through legislation since 2022. These changes could save lives and make communities safer. However, it will take real political courage to push these proposals past the radical advocates and their legislative allies who are staunchly opposed to such changes. 

In the coming days, we’ll take a closer look at the governor’s proposals which will take real shape when the Executive Budget is released. That’s where we’ll see if these ideas are more than just talk. New Yorkers need strong leadership and real solutions. I’ll keep fighting for policies that make our state safer, more affordable, and a better place to live. It is time to get to work.”