Long Island, NY – Just ahead of the next legislative session, Senators Steve Rhoads, Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, Anthony Palumbo, Jack Martins, Mario Mattera, Dean Murray, and Alexis Weik hosted a critical roundtable discussion today focused on tackling New York’s growing cost-of-living crisis. This event is the latest in a statewide series of affordability roundtables led by Senate Republicans, as residents continue to struggle under policies from Albany that have pushed prices beyond reach.

From child care and housing to energy costs, utility bills, and burdensome state mandates, families across New York are facing unprecedented financial pressures. During the discussions, Senators Rhoads, Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, Palumbo, Martins, Mattera, Murray, and Weik engaged directly with residents and local stakeholders, listening to their concerns and working to identify practical solutions to ease the burden on New Yorkers.

“Hardworking New Yorkers are being crushed by skyrocketing costs in every area of their lives:  housing, energy, insurance, taxes - all the result of failed policies given to us from failed one-party rule in Albany. This affordability crisis is driving residents and businesses out of our state in record numbers, and we cannot stand by while New York families feel they have no choice but to leave their homes and communities behind. Today’s roundtable made one thing unmistakably clear: New Yorkers need immediate, meaningful relief.  Affordability is a punchline to Albany Democrats. We’re not laughing. Republicans are listening and fighting to restore common sense, rein in costs, and transform New York into a place where families not only survive, but thrive,” said Senator Steve Rhoads.

“Addressing Long Island’s housing crisis is a complex problem that requires bipartisan solutions. CDLI wants to leverage the collective will of government, community partners, and residents to create safe, affordable homes that Long Island families deserve,” said Gwen O'Shea, CEO and President, Community Development Long Island.

“We are proud to have Senator Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick and Senate Republicans fighting for us in Albany, and for bringing affordability issues to the forefront. In Long Beach, our administration has fought hard to bring an end to the out-of-control tax hikes of the past. Keeping taxes stable and lowering costs for families is our priority. We need common sense, practical solutions that put our residents first. The issue of affordability in New York State is crucial.” said Brendan Finn, President, Long Beach City Council.

The roundtables provide an open forum for residents and local leaders to discuss the challenges facing their communities and collaborate with policymakers on actionable steps to make New York more affordable. By bringing the voices of everyday New Yorkers into the conversation, Senate Republicans are leading efforts to restore affordability, opportunity, and common-sense solutions across the state.