Albany, NY — Following Governor Kathy Hochul’s State of the State address, State Senator Steve Chan issued a forceful response criticizing Albany Democrats for what he described as years of failed leadership that have made New York increasingly unaffordable and unsafe for working families.

Today’s address was the same talk, different year.

Senator Chan continued, “While the Governor painted an optimistic picture of New York, families across our state continue to struggle with rising costs, declining public safety, and no clear path forward. New Yorkers deserve real solutions—not more empty promises.”

Senator Chan argued that one-party Democratic control has created an environment where affordability continues to worsen for families, seniors, and small businesses.

New York is not being led—it is being controlled.” 

Senator Chan said, “One-party rule has turned Albany into an echo chamber for the most extreme voices in New York politics. Families are being crushed by higher grocery bills, rising housing costs, expensive utility bills, property taxes, and burdensome regulations.

The Senator specifically criticized the state’s energy policies, pointing to the costs associated with the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA), which he said has driven up utility costs without providing realistic implementation strategies.

“New Yorkers are paying significantly more for electricity while Albany continues pushing expensive mandates without a practical plan,” Chan said. “We can support renewable energy while still being honest about affordability and public safety concerns.”

Senator Chan also highlighted concerns surrounding battery energy storage facilities and renewed his call for passage of his legislation, S7710, which would prohibit battery storage systems from being built within 500 feet of schools and residential homes.

“These facilities have caught fire and burned for days,” Chan said. “Communities deserve basic protections from dangerous projects being pushed into their neighborhoods.”

On public safety, Senator Chan sharply criticized Democratic criminal justice reforms, including bail reform, parole changes, and discovery laws, which he argued have contributed to increased crime and reduced accountability.

“This is not a crime wave—it is a wave of bad policies,” Chan said. “When Albany ties the hands of law enforcement, criminals become emboldened and communities suffer.”

Drawing from his experience as a Marine, police sergeant, father, small business owner, and former PTA president, Senator Chan said he remains committed to fighting for practical solutions that restore trust in government.

As a Marine, I fought for this country. As a police officer, I fought for my community. As a father, I fight for my children’s future everyday.

In Albany, I will continue fighting to restore affordability, improve public safety, and bring accountability back to state government.

Senator Chan concluded by reaffirming his commitment to advocating for policies that put working families first.

“New Yorkers deserve a government that works for them—not against them,” Chan said. “They deserve safety, affordability, accountability, and leadership with the courage to confront these challenges head-on.”