New York State Senator Joseph Griffo issued a statement in response to the governor’s recent State of the State Address. In his remarks, Griffo said he would review the governor’s proposals with an open mind.
“Today, the governor unveiled a broad approach she believes will address many of the issues affecting New Yorkers and their families. As always, I will thoroughly review and consider what the governor has proposed with an open mind,” Griffo stated.
He acknowledged agreement with several aspects of the address. “I am pleased that the governor appears to recognize that the cost of living in New York is a problem. Generally, I agree with her proposed investments in mental health, childcare and infrastructure and her efforts to protect children from online predators, end the tax on tips and tackle insurance and utility costs.”
However, Griffo expressed disappointment about some elements of the speech. “I am disappointed that the governor chose to finger point instead of providing more specific details about how she would provide relief and solutions. She also did not propose any significant changes that would fix bail ‘reform,’ the HALT Act and other criminal justice policies that have made communities and the state less safe.”
Griffo emphasized his concern over what he described as insufficient action by state leadership: “Moving forward, it is more than words that matter. It is actions and the approach, and I am concerned that we will continue to see token efforts that are not sufficient. The governor must be truly willing to make the bold decisions and take the substantive and substantial action needed to really help New Yorkers who are struggling and facing significant challenges, which have only gotten worse under one-party control of state government.”
He pointed out ongoing hardships for residents due to high utility bills, taxes, economic pressures, as well as concerns over public safety linked to criminal justice reforms. According to Griffo, these issues contribute to people leaving New York for opportunities elsewhere.
“It is imperative that we focus on stopping this mass exodus by taking the real action needed to improve the lives of New Yorkers, as I have continued to advocate. This must include cutting taxes and regulations, lowering energy costs, enhancing public safety, easing burdensome mandates, creating and supporting economic opportunities and job growth and investing in our infrastructure, schools and communities,” he said.
Griffo noted his legislative efforts aimed at addressing these challenges: “I have introduced, supported, and pushed for practical and common-sense legislation, solutions and approaches that will help to accomplish these and other goals. My effort will continue during this year’s legislative session.”
He concluded by expressing hope for a change in direction from state leaders: “As this year’s session gets underway and work on the State Budget begins, I am hopeful that the governor and legislative majorities will finally realize that their approach is not working and that they will embrace a different approach that will make the state more affordable, safer and stronger.”
