June 22 marked the end of this year’s legislative session. Though there were disappointments, such as the three-men-in-a-room budget negotiations when we were promised more transparency, there was also legislation passed that will assist businesses,...

Many agencies and organizations across the world observed World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on June 15. It’s a day in which community activists raise awareness about abuse of the elderly and try to teach community residents what they can do to help someone...

When constituents take the time to write or call, I’m always appreciative. Your calls help me to be a better lawmaker and, often, when people call on any given topic, your calls collectively influence the outcome of important decisions. One recent...

As we approach the end of session, I wanted to share with you a few priorities my colleagues and I have set forth and presented to the Governor. We hope to pass legislation before June 22 that protects and creates jobs; preserves Empire Zone benefits...

As we pause on Memorial Day to honor those who gave their lives to their country, we are mindful of the many sacrifices they made for us and our country. In this time of honoring, we also remember those who are still fighting to protect our great country...

For weeks, I have been talking about how Albany pushed through a budget that was negotiated behind closed doors and increased state spending by nearly 10%. I have also mentioned that this year’s budget will increase taxes and fees and eliminate important...

As has been reported, the 2008-09 budget imposes $1.5 billion in new fees and taxes on residents. In this column, I’d like to highlight for you some of the details of those fees and taxes people can, unfortunately, expect to see this year. I voted...