Issues: Sea or Boat

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo unveiled the proposed 2013-14Executive Budget and Management Plan that builds on two years of balanced, fiscally responsible budgeting and invests in economic development, education reform, rebuilding after Superstorm Sandy, provides support to local governments and school districts, and includes no new taxes or fees.

Highlights of the Executive Budget:

· Eliminates $1.3 billion budget gap with no new taxes or fees. The expected gap for 2013-14 was projected to be $17.4 billion prior to the last two responsible budgets.

· Holds spending increases below 2 percent for third consecutive year.

Senator Owen H. Johnson recently toured the United States Coast Guard Station at Fire Island.  Pictured with Senator Johnson are Coast Guard Auxiliary Member Harvey Miller, Suffolk County Legislator Wayne Horsley, and the crew aboard a 47 foot Motor Lifeboat, Coast Guard 47316. Photograph from left to right:

State Legislation (S.7199) Would Provide Financial Incentives, Reduce Insurance Premiums for Completing Boating Safety Course

New York State Senators David Carlucci (D-Rockland/Orange) and Tony Avella (D-Queens) today offered their support for legislation that will offer a reduction in insurance premiums for New Yorkers that choose to take boating safety courses.  The idea is a based on a carrot-and-stick approach that would reward individuals for learning how to properly operate a boat or vessel, with the goal being a renewed focus on accident prevention.

Will Be Introducing New Legislation to Raise Penalties for BUI & Require Greater Safety Training

     Senator Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr. (R-Merrick) today announced that he will be introducing new boating safety legislation to make our waterways safer for boaters. The legislation would raise the penalties for Boating Under the Influence (BUI) and require safety training for anyone who operates a boat. Michelle Mannino, whose husband Christopher was killed by another boater accused of BWI, the Nassau County Police Department’s Marine Bureau, Nassau County Executive Ed Mangano, and Assemblyman David McDonough joined Senator Fuschillo in calling for stronger laws.