The Center for Effective Lawmaking (CEL) ranked Assemblyman Brian Maher (R,C-Walden) among the most effective Minority assemblymembers and one of the most effective Minority freshmen legislators in New York state during the 2023–2024 Legislative Session.

The recognition follows a detailed analysis released by the CEL, which evaluates lawmakers using 15 metrics to measure the substance of the bills they introduce, how far their legislation advances and how frequently their proposals become law. Maher received direct notice of the honor from CEL Program Director Paige Higginson-Rollins, who congratulated him for “setting an example for promoting the importance of effective lawmaking.”

According to the newly released State Legislative Effectiveness Scores, Maher ranked third overall among Minority assemblymembers statewide and was also identified as one of only five freshman lawmakers to “exceed expectations”—a distinction based on outperforming benchmark scores for new members.

“This recognition is a testament to the work my team and I do every day to fight for our communities,” said Assemblyman Maher. “From delivering bipartisan solutions to advancing legislation that directly benefits Hudson Valley families, my focus has always been on getting results—not sowing division. I’m grateful to the Center for Effective Lawmaking for this acknowledgment and remain committed to serving with the same level of determination and integrity.”

Despite being a part of a legislative minority, Maher’s performance placed him in the top tier of Minority lawmakers and well above the average for first-term assemblymembers. The report notes freshman legislators who outperform their cohort often “reveal strong political acumen” and demonstrate potential for future leadership.

“This report shows what so many of us have already known about Brian Maher for many years,” said Patricia Larkin, widow of longtime NYS Senator Bill Larkin. “Brian Maher is for the people and he will work with anyone, regardless of their political affiliation, to serve the communities he represents and advocate for the issues that people care about most.”