New Years is a time many of us resolve to do better; improve our health, learn a new skill, or spend more time with our family. In that spirit, the state legislature should make 2026 the year New York becomes a better place to live, work and raise a family by focusing on issues of affordability and public safety when the new legislative session begins on January 7.

New York continues to rank among the least affordable states in the nation, with an exorbitant cost of living driven by high taxes, rising health care costs, excessive government spending, skyrocketing energy costs, and unaffordable housing prices. The Senate and Assembly must work together to adopt policies and programs to address these issues for families and businesses alike.

We can start by cutting both income and property taxes. One proposal worth considering would exempt income taxes on those making less than $250,000, phased in over 10 years. Another initiative would impose a three-year freeze on property taxes.  I also co-sponsor legislation that would eliminate the state income tax of tips and overtime. 

New York is also one of the most difficult states in which to conduct business because of high taxes and excessive regulations, which too often drive employers and workers elsewhere. According to the Tax Foundation’s Business Climate Index, New York ranks 50th in the nation. We should be cutting taxes and reducing burdensome regulations to help retain existing businesses and to attract new ones.

Energy costs are also adding to the affordability challenge facing New Yorkers. Since passage of the Climate Leadership & Community Protection Act, which I opposed, energy prices have increased more than 50% as utility companies raise rates to meet climate goals that many say are unachievable. New York needs an energy policy that is both reliable and affordable. We can start by repealing the All-Electric Buildings Act, which is currently on hold, and other Green New Deal policies that drive up utility costs.

The legislature can also help New York families facing the high cost of housing and childcare by providing tax credits to first time homebuyers and incentivizing employers to provide childcare for their workers.

Albany must also take steps to make New York safer in 2026. We can keep violent criminals and repeat offenders off the streets by repealing reckless changes made in recent years to our bail, discovery, parole, and other criminal justice laws. Legislation that I co-sponsor would permit judges to consider a defendant’s dangerousness when making bail decisions. We must also ensure that law enforcement agencies are fully funded and that officers have the resources needed to protect our communities.

While the New Year presents many challenges, we must recognize we can make life better for New York residents and businesses. I look forward to working with my Senate and Assembly colleagues and others in state government on these opportunities.

I wish you and your family a Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy, and prosperous New Year.