New York State Senator George D. Maziarz (R, C – Newfane) today gave high praise to Governor Andrew Cuomo’s inaugural State of the State Address. Cuomo’s speech, which was delivered in the Convention Center of Albany’s Empire State Plaza, focused on addressing the state’s current fiscal crisis, restructuring government operations, and bringing about comprehensive ethics reform.
“Governor Cuomo was right on point with his vision of what needs to be done to put New York back on a path to fiscal stability,” said Maziarz. “If New York is to regain its status as one of the best states in the country to live, work and raise a family, we must make fundamental changes in the way we do business. Governor Cuomo understands this and he seems prepared to act.”
Cuomo also outlined what he termed the “Emergency Fiscal Plan,” which includes a one-year pay freeze for the majority of state workers and a property tax cap set at two percent or the rate of inflation, whichever is less.
“A tax cap is certainly a step in the right direction because New York State cannot continue to spend at the current levels,” said Maziarz. “That being said, a tax cap must be accompanied by mandate relief. The state cannot continue to push its unquenchable thirst for spending onto the backs of school districts, local governments, and other local taxing districts. I’ve voted for a tax cap twice already, and hopefully the third time will be the charm and it will become law.”
Maziarz vowed to work cooperatively with Cuomo, putting a tumultuous time in the state’s history behind.
“Governor Cuomo was very energetic and passionate during his speech,” said Maziarz. “At the same time, he expressed a great willingness to collaborate with legislators from both sides of the aisle. As we face our challenges, I look forward to working with him for the betterment of New York.”
####
