Rising grocery and energy bills have pushed many New York families to what one lawmaker calls a breaking point. A new column from Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay puts the state’s affordability crisis squarely on decisions made in Albany.
Barclay argues the cost of living problem isn’t temporary. He describes it as a long-standing issue driven by state policy, saying, “The cost of living in New York isn’t just a passing storm; it’s a full-blown nor’easter.”
At the center of his criticism is state spending. Barclay points to a state budget that reached a quarter-trillion dollars, saying New York now outspends states with larger populations and faster economic growth. He argues that approach leaves taxpayers paying more while everyday expenses climb.
The column also highlights financial stress across income levels. Barclay cites a Community Service Society of New York report showing one in four New Yorkers has no emergency savings. More than a quarter rely on debt to cover expenses, and nearly 40% are not saving for retirement.
Barclay says those numbers show the affordability problem cuts across regions and households. In his view, government assistance alone won’t solve it. “Affordability won’t come from government checks; it has to come from fundamental reforms,” he wrote.
The Assembly Minority Conference is pushing several proposals it says would ease pressure on households. Ideas include temporarily eliminating sales tax on everyday items, expanding the state Earned Income Tax Credit, and reducing taxes on mobile phone services.
Other proposals focus on long-term costs. Barclay calls for a cap on state spending tied to inflation and a new division to review and eliminate regulations. The conference is also backing expansions to child and dependent care tax credits.
“The Empire State should be defined by the heights of its citizens’ opportunities, not the height of their tax bills,” Barclay wrote. He argues lawmakers must rethink spending and taxation if New York wants to remain affordable for families.
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