A group of New York Senate Republicans is calling for sweeping changes to the state’s budget priorities, urging the Democratic majority to adopt policies aimed at cutting taxes, reducing spending, and strengthening public safety.
Senate Republican Leader Rob Ortt, along with Senators Andrew Lanza, Thomas O’Mara, Pam Helming, and Bill Weber, sent a letter to Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins outlining their proposals. The lawmakers argue that the state is on the wrong track due to excessive spending, high taxes, and policies that they say have failed to keep New Yorkers safe.
The Republican senators are advocating for a budget that emphasizes affordability, economic growth, and crime reduction. Their plan includes tax cuts for residents and small businesses, property tax rebates, and rolling back what they call “ridiculous” green energy mandates to ensure reliable and affordable energy. They also propose increasing housing supply and supporting farmers to strengthen the state’s agricultural sector.
Public safety is another major focus. The lawmakers are pushing to repeal recent bail and discovery reforms, arguing that these policies have led to increased crime. They also want to enhance protections for law enforcement officers, address subway crime, and combat antisemitism and hate crimes.
In the healthcare sector, the Republicans are advocating for improved access to affordable healthcare, increased support for mental health services, and better funding for programs that assist veterans, military families, and individuals with disabilities.
The senators also want to end what they describe as the state’s “sanctuary status” for undocumented immigrants. Their proposals include repealing the Green Light Law, which allows undocumented individuals to obtain driver’s licenses, and prohibiting the use of taxpayer funds to support migrants.
Other priorities include strengthening parental rights in education, requiring voter ID for elections, and imposing term limits on politicians.
With budget negotiations underway, the Republican lawmakers are pushing for a “fiscally responsible” spending plan that prioritizes economic relief and public safety. However, with Democrats controlling both legislative chambers, the extent to which these proposals will be included remains uncertain.
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