As New York State prepares for the start of the 2025 legislative session, Senator Tom O’Mara is urging Governor Kathy Hochul to address what he describes as a growing list of crises affecting the state, from public safety concerns to economic burdens on taxpayers and small businesses.
In his latest weekly column, O’Mara outlined a series of pressing issues he believes must take center stage in the governor’s upcoming State of the State address on January 14 and the subsequent release of her proposed 2025-2026 budget plan.
At the top of his list is public safety, with O’Mara calling for stronger support for law enforcement, victims of crime, and a focus on reversing what he views as dangerous criminal justice reforms. He also highlighted the escalating cost of the migrant crisis, which he claims has placed an unfair financial burden on local governments and taxpayers.
“The illegal migrant crisis has already cost taxpayers billions and continues to strain local services, jeopardizing safety and amplifying concerns about the state’s trajectory,” O’Mara wrote.
The senator also called for immediate action on New York’s high tax burden and unfunded state mandates, which he argues are stifling small businesses and family farms. Additionally, he criticized what he termed “out-of-control government spending,” expressing concern that it could exacerbate New York’s population loss.
Energy policy was another key focus, with O’Mara urging a slowdown in implementing “radical energy mandates” that he claims overlook affordability and reliability. He also pushed for accountability in reassessing New York’s COVID-19 response, particularly the handling of nursing home protocols during the pandemic.
O’Mara underscored the growing fentanyl crisis and called for more resources to combat the deadly drug, as well as a renewed focus on revitalizing the state’s economy by addressing unemployment insurance costs, which he says continue to burden employers.
In closing, O’Mara emphasized the need for Governor Hochul to deliver concrete commitments to tackle these issues head-on.
“New Yorkers across the Southern Tier, Finger Lakes, and beyond are watching closely,” O’Mara wrote. “They want a state that is safer, more affordable, and more accountable. The time for action is now.”
As the legislative session begins, all eyes will be on Albany to see whether Governor Hochul will align her agenda with the priorities outlined by O’Mara and other lawmakers calling for change.
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