Long Island, NY - January 13, 2016 - Several figures issued statements on Governor Andrew M. Cuomo's State of the State address.
Attorney General Eric T. Schneiderman stated: “I congratulate Governor Cuomo for presenting a strong progressive agenda that will expand opportunities for New Yorkers during today’s State of the State. New Yorkers have always worked together to overcome tough challenges, and this year we have the opportunity to do so once again. We can raise wages for the lowest paid workers, protect immigrants, help families find affordable housing, create jobs by upgrading our aging infrastructure, reform our criminal justice system to give more young people the second chance they need, and root out the abuses of power that have plagued Albany.
"As I said last year -- and recent convictions have confirmed -- we need to bring real reform to the halls of power. I am particularly pleased that the Governor has joined the call to tackle the issue of outside income for legislators. His proposal is an important step forward. The time has come to pass comprehensive ethics reform to restore public trust and confidence in our government."
"I look forward to working with the governor and all of our state’s leaders to pass these and other proposals to make New York safer and stronger for all our communities.”
Assemblyman Todd Kaminsky stated: “As a former federal prosecutor focused on government corruption, I saw first-hand how lawmakers abused lax state laws to enrich themselves and others at the expense of the public. That is why – since Day 1 of my tenure in the Assembly – I have been pushing in the legislature to ban or significantly limit outside income, close the LLC loophole, publicly finance fair elections, and prevent convicted public officials from receiving a pension, among other reforms.
“Governor Cuomo’s common sense reform proposals today include what I believe are essential measures to stem the tide of corruption in our state. Albany must act swiftly to enact real reform so that our government works effectively and honestly on behalf of New Yorkers, and so that we renew New Yorkers’ trust in their government in order to strengthen our democracy and, with it, our state.”
Assemblyman Dean Murray stated: “As the governor continues to roll-out his proposals for 2016, you can’t help but notice the striking similarities to Assembly Minority Conference bills from last session. His fourth proposal aims to provide tax relief for small businesses, offer a higher percentage for personal income tax exemptions, and promote economic development. “While I am encouraged that the governor is now taking steps to provide the small-business owners in this state with some relief, the issue should have been addressed years ago. The governor and Assembly Majority had to look no further than the Small Business Full Employment Act (A.5898) legislation I proudly co-sponsor. “The governor’s proposal mirrors many of the proposals from A.5898 which would provide tax and regulatory relief for small businesses. There are over 190,000 small businesses on Long Island that desperately need our help. I look forward to this year’s legislative session and hope the governor is serious about advancing these measures as part of the budget.”