Buffalo Ledger

As the New Year approaches, the 2025 state legislative session in New York is set to begin. Lawmakers are urged to prioritize affordability and manage government size and costs effectively.

Rising inflation, taxes, fees, and state mandates are affecting families and businesses. To address these issues, a proposal suggests reducing the income tax rate by 2% for middle-class taxpayers and doubling the School Tax Relief (STAR) program.

The budget should ensure fair distribution of school funding across districts. Adjustments to the foundation aid formula for over 700 school districts aim to ease local taxpayer burdens.

Revisions to the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act are also recommended. The act's timeline for implementing changes in home heating, appliances, and vehicles is seen as unfeasible. Delaying deadlines could allow time for a sustainable clean energy plan.

In healthcare, phasing out insurance taxes and rejecting a statewide single-payer health plan are proposed to avoid tax increases. Support for rural hospitals like Bertrand Chaffee Hospital in Springville is essential for maintaining care access. Protecting funding for the Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP) is also emphasized.

Public safety remains crucial. Recent criminal justice reforms are criticized for prioritizing offenders over victims. Reversing these changes is suggested to enhance community safety.

The state collaborates with local stakeholders on repurposing unused facilities like West Seneca Developmental Center and Gowanda Correctional Facility. Finding new uses could return these properties to tax rolls.

As challenges are addressed, there is an expression of honor in serving as a representative in Albany with wishes for a happy New Year.