It is clear that the Governor’s address failed to meaningfully confront many of the challenges facing our state. It did not offer a realistic or comprehensive plan to address New York’s affordability crisis, which are the result of years of one-party Democrat control.

New Yorkers continue to leave the state in record numbers, driven by high taxes, soaring utility bills, rising costs of goods, and growing public safety concerns. Yet in her State of the State, Governor Hochul doubled down on Congestion Pricing, refused to restore common sense to the state’s bail reform laws, and has shown that she inexplicably believes New York can spend its way out of our affordability crisis.

While I disagree with much of the Governor’s agenda, as the Ranking member of the Senate Mental Health Committee, I am encouraged to see proposals to bolster investments in mental wellness, particularly those that focus on children and schools. Another promising initiative is to provide funding for clean water infrastructure and to tackle “forever chemicals” like PFAS. While many of the details still await to be seen, I will be working to ensure this funding equitably benefits all residents, regardless of their water provider.

After years of failed policies, her plan offers little clarity and even less relief. Our conference has unveiled the ‘Save NY’ agenda, with commonsense reforms to improve affordability and quality of life across New York State.