STATEMENT FROM SENATOR WALCZYK

State Senator Mark Walczyk issued the following statement in response to the State of State address: 

 

"Governor Hochul opened her State of the State address with a new song and dance; literally. I'm not sure how slam poetry, marching bands, choirs, dancers and Off-Broadway productions are going to reduce crime, or lower financial burdens for everyday New Yorkers but I'm sure she entertained herself. What's not entertaining is the price tag of all the goodies she's promising and what these proposals will do to further the largest state budget in the nation. 

 

The Governor repeatedly asserted, ‘you deserve more money in your pocket,’ yet her proposals—including $1 billion in middle-class tax cuts, a $500 rebate check for families, and a $1,000 child tax credit. Sounds nice, but if she's taking thousands out of your pocket in new taxes and fees, handing you back hundreds is nothing more than a cheap political gimmick.

 

Additionally, while she mentioned the importance of being tough on crime, she failed to commit to repealing 'cashless bail,' which continues to confound those who enforce our laws and jeopardize the safety of our communities. 

 

'Free' Community College? Who's paying for that? $1 billion toward emission-free projects? Who's energy bill is that going to show up on?

 

While I have concerns about several proposals outlined in the State of the State address, there were aspects I agreed with. I was encouraged to see that she seems willing to keep nuclear energy on the table as part of our state’s energy strategy. And yes, I agree—Josh Allen is an MVP. 

 

Affordability remains at the forefront of everyone’s minds. As I look forward to reviewing the budget and the remainder of the Governor’s proposals for the upcoming Legislative Session, I must emphasize that what I heard today falls short of any hope for the size of government New Yorkers can afford. Enough of the 'song and dance.' Let's get after serious reforms to make New York a place that stops exporting the working class, stops importing criminals, and actually lays the groundwork for growth."