‘Fiasco’ describes latest legislative session, Hawley says
Press Release, State Assemblyman Steve Hawley
State Assemblyman Steve Hawley, R-Batavia, issued this statement on the “extraordinary session” in Albany.
“Albany’s dysfunction was on full display yesterday as legislators were called back to session for a 12-hour fiasco with many of us in the dark until very late as to what bills we were to vote on. As usual, the three-men-in-a-room backdoor deal circus was on full display, costing taxpayers tens of thousands in per diems and travel expenses.
“Although many issues like ethics reform, small-business relief, property and income tax reform were unfortunately not addressed this year, we did manage to pass sales tax extenders for Orleans and Genesee counties that will help mitigate rising property taxes and fund various county initiatives.
“We also made important changes that will allow us to streamline the grant process for homeowners and owners of secondary properties affected by flooding to obtain aid and relief. I am hopeful that the governor will sign this bill into law soon and help residents who are still struggling with Lake Ontario’s devastating flooding.
“While this session was far from perfect and rife with dysfunction and secrecy, we did provide a record amount of aid for our schools, provided funding to combat the growing heroin epidemic, passed the ‘New York Buy American Act’ to bolster manufacturing and construction jobs and brought ride-sharing services upstate.
“I look forward to a productive summer and fall visiting with constituents in our area and hearing feedback, questions and concerns as we look forward to the 2018 Session. Please remember that I am always available to discuss state issues and I will always be your voice and represent you fairly in Albany.”
