April 26, 2017 _ _
HAWLEY LAUNCHES 2017 LEGISLATIVE SURVEY
Invites members of the public to answer questions and share ideas and concerns
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) today announced that his 2017 Legislative Survey has been launched on his official Assembly website. The survey covers various topics such as the minimum wage, small business reform, the DREAM Act and economic development.
“I am proud to once again offer an interactive survey to my constituents that allows for feedback on opinion-based questions pertaining to the most salient legislative issues facing our state,” Hawley said. “Hearing feedback, positive and negative, from those who have trusted me to represent them in Albany is the crux of what we do as elected officials, and I encourage all residents to take a couple of minutes and answer these questions. I look forward to your feedback!”
A link to Hawley’s survey can be found by clicking here.
April 25, 2017 _ _
HAWLEY PENS LETTER TO GOV. CUOMO AMIDST DEVASTATING CONDITIONS ALONG LAKE ONTARIO SHORELINE
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) recently wrote to Gov. Cuomo requesting that a State of Emergency be enacted in order to provide aid to the thousands of residents and businesses that have been and will be forced out due to the rising water levels along Lake Ontario’s shoreline and help mitigate and prevent further property damage.
“There is no doubt that the water will continue to rise over the next several days and the devastation from flooding will be irreversible,” Hawley wrote. “Residents will be forced out of their homes. Businesses will be forced to close. Municipal infrastructure will be overwhelmed. The fishing and tourism industry will also suffer.”
Much of the damage stems from the International Joint Commission (IJC) agreement signed by former President Obama shortly before leaving office. Montreal needs to release water in order to lower water levels along the Lake Ontario shorelines but are prohibited because of the new IJC agreement. Hawley vehemently fought against this proposal due to concerns over rising water levels that have now come to fruition.
“Necessary steps have been put into place to ensure the safety of residents and to help protect the local economy, but we need help,” Hawley continued. “I am requesting that you declare a State of Emergency to provide further resources and possible financial relief to municipalities, homeowners and business owners along the shore.”
GOV. VETOES MILLIONS IN WORKFORCE, PUBLIC SAFETY PROGRAMS, APPROVES $4.6M TO FUND SAFE ACT
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) is criticizing the governor for not including $4.6 million in SAFE Act funding within the 154 items he vetoed late last week. The funding has yet to be used because the SAFE Act was enacted four years ago, and those funds could be used more appropriately to rebuild infrastructure and fund schools in Western New York.
“I am disheartened by Gov. Cuomo’s failure to cease funding for the SAFE Act,” said Hawley. “I voted against the Capital Projects budget bill, which contained millions to fund the unconstitutional SAFE Act, and I continue to stand in opposition.
“The high number of vetoes makes it clear that there is massive waste in the budget,” Hawley continued. “The governor vetoed millions to fund workforce development, various grant programs and environmental projects across the state but doubled-down on his fight against law-abiding gun owners. Funding for the SAFE Act hasn’t been used since its inception, so it should have been eliminated from the budget. We need a budget that’s free of waste and only utilizes funds to benefit New Yorkers.”
April 8, 2017 _ _
HAWLEY ISSUES STATEMENT ON PASSAGE OF THE NYS BUDGET
A Statement from Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) on the final NYS Budget Agreement
“After a long, exhaustive budget process, we have finally come to the end of the road. I am pleased that we have increased funding to repair our roads, bridges and highways and provided resources for a slew of capital projects across upstate. Although they are not totally ideal, we have made changes to the Charitable Gaming laws which will help raffles and charity functions at thousands of churches, non-profits and fire departments across the state.
“The restoration of library funding that was slated to be cut by the governor and securing a record high in education aid are major victories for us as well. We have also legalized ride-sharing services like Uber upstate and will provide adequate funding for the Western New York Veterans Home, which are crucial to our region.
“Despite these victories, New York City initiatives like Raise the Age, increased income taxes and SAFE Act funding, along with many political projects for downstate, have tainted our final budget. I will continue to fight against the syphoning of our resources to New York City in the months ahead and ensure we receive our fair share.”
April 4, 2017 _ _
HAWLEY ANNOUNCES 2ND ANNUAL FREE ELECTRONIC RECYCLING EVENT THIS SATURDAY IN BATAVIA
An opportunity for residents to recycle old electronic devices free of charge
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) today announced that he will be hosting a free electronic recycling event at the parking lot of 5130 E. Main Street in Batavia next to National Grid this Saturday, April 8. The event, in conjunction with Spectrum and Sunnking, will give residents an opportunity to recycle old cell phones, computers, monitors, printers and any other small electronic devices free of charge. There is a limit of four tube televisions per car.
“I am proud to announce my 2nd Annual Free Electronic Recycling event that is taking place this weekend,” Hawley said. “Last year’s event was a huge success and I was pleased to see so many residents come out and have some fun getting rid of their old electronic junk. It is important to remain good stewards of environmental conservation and limit our waste and pollution footprint while we actively pursue economic development and industry building. I am eagerly looking forward to Saturday and I encourage all local residents to come out and participate!”
April 3, 2017 _ _
HAWLEY RIPS LATE BUDGET, EXTENDER AS UTTER FAILURE
A Statement from Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia)
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) poses with nearly 2,000 pages of ‘budget extender’ legislation that was passed by the Legislature Monday following a stalemate in negotiations.
“This nearly 2,000 page budget extender serves as a microcosm of the dysfunction, secrecy and incompetence in Albany’s budget process. We have been kept mostly in the dark for days and now are expected to vote on an almost 2,000 page budget extender that will keep the government in function until May 31 only minutes after it was printed. This is an absolutely unacceptable way to operate state government, and the state leaders and New York City politicians who are perpetuating this stalemate because they can’t agree after weeks of negotiations should be ashamed of themselves. Furthermore, they have cost taxpayers roughly $250,000 in per diem in travel expenses for legislators by keeping them here through the weekend while an agreement is being negotiated.”
March 31, 2017 _ _
HAWLEY ISSUES BUDGET UPDATE FROM ALBANY, DOWNSTATE SPECIAL INTERESTS, GOV. POTENTIALLY COST TAXPAYERS HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS BY DELAYING FINAL AGREEMENT
A Statement from Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) on the status of budget negotiations (Enacted State Budget is due tonight by midnight)
“It is unconscionable that an agreement, which state leaders have had months to negotiate, must wait until the absolute last minute year after year, leaving the public and legislators in the dark.”
“In keeping all 213 state legislators in Albany this week voting on useless legislation while a deal is struck behind the scenes, state leaders will have potentially cost taxpayers hundreds of thousands of dollars in per diems because they are too incompetent and beholden to special interests to agree on a deal anytime in the previous several months.”
“At this point, it seems as though the ‘Three Men in a Room’ are hashing out various policy and spending proposals behind closed doors. Unfortunately, this troubling lack of transparency is usual during the final days of budget negotiations, but it is certainly not the appropriate way to do the people’s business.”
“Rumors are circulating surrounding an agreement on upstate ride-sharing, a major clean water infrastructure investment and raising the age of criminal responsibility from 16 to 18, but little legislation has been introduced or printed and we are at the will of the nebulous legislative leaders.”
“I am hopeful that the 2017 Charitable Gaming Act, increased money to repair our roads and bridges and small-business relief are included in the final budget and I will be fighting for our community every step of the way. I will keep you updated and issue reports when more information is known.”
March 27, 2017 _ _
HAWLEY WELCOMES HOLLEY HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS TO ALBANY
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) [center] talks with a group of students from Holley High School in Albany Monday
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) welcomed a group of students from the Holley High School Humanities Class in Holley, New York to Albany Monday where they were honored in the Assembly Chamber. The purpose of the trip was to educate students on the inner-workings of state government and give them an exclusive peek at how the Legislature functions, especially during Albany’s busy budget season. The humanities class is unique in that it relies very little on textbooks and worksheets but rather questioning, student interaction, discussion and teamwork.
“I was proud to meet with such an impressive group of young men and women from a local high school in my district on Monday,” Hawley said. “It is extremely important to encourage future generations to become involved with and passionate about government and remind them that they are the leaders of tomorrow. Much of the work we do on behalf of taxpayers is often lost or never heard about, and I was excited to give an inside look at my day-to-day business and how budget negotiations are progressing here at the state Capitol. I wish these students success in the future.”
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BzJHMkzP1Z5RWHJ6bWpZaUhuSGs/view
HAWLEY ANNOUNCES NEW $21 MILLION DORMITORY PROJECT SLATED FOR THE COLLEGE AT BROCKPORT
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) today announced that The College at Brockport will be receiving a new 256-bed dormitory on its campus with construction expected to commence this May and be completed sometime next summer. The four- story building will be constructed with state-of-the-art technology that will allow large portions to be fabricated at an off-site facility and put together on the campus, saving time and money. Furthermore, the design-build method behind the project will allow for one contract to fund and direct both design and construction, expediting construction and streamlining costs.
“The College at Brockport is a tremendous education hub in Western New York that offers a valuable education to thousands of students per year,” Hawley said. “It is important that we continue to invest in higher education and update our campuses to offer prospective and current students the best educational and residency experience possible. This new dorm will be equipped with the highest-quality security and safety features and several different classroom and study options to enhance student interaction. I look forward to the completion of this project and to The College at Brockport’s success moving forward.”
March 23, 2017 _ _
HAWLEY DEFENDS 2ND AMENDMENT, HUNTERS AT SPORTSMEN’S DAY
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) [at podium] speaks at Sportsmen & Outdoor Recreation Legislative Awareness Day
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) spoke with pro-Second Amendment groups as well as a number of hunters, sportsmen, wildlife and fishing advocates from around the state on Wednesday at Albany’s annual Sportsmen’s Day. Among the groups in attendance were the New York State Rifle and Pistol Association (NYSRPA), the New York State Crossbow Coalition, New York State Conservation Council, Inc. and Sportsmen’s Association for Firearms Education (SAFE).
“I have always prided myself as being an outdoorsman and advocate for the Second Amendment,” Hawley said. “Things like hunting, fishing and target shooting are ingrained in Western New York’s culture and require consistent protection from downstate interest groups who seek to infringe on our rights. I was one of the first legislators to fight against the unconstitutional SAFE Act and have consistently advocated for hunting and trapping rights in the counties I represent. I enjoyed speaking with various statewide groups and was impressed by their knowledge, passion and commitment. I look forward to this event each year and thank those who came to advocate and participate.”
March 22, 2017 _ _
GOV. THREATENS UPSTATE FAMILIES WITH A 26% INCOME TAX HIKE
A Statement from Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) on the federal plan to shift Medicaid funding solely to New York State
“Gov. Cuomo’s shameless threat to New York families is absolutely offensive. New York State needs to join the rest of the nation and pay for Medicaid instead of leveraging the program on the backs of homeowners and local governments. We have an obligation to cover our most vulnerable but not in a ‘cradle to grave’ fashion by which our state offers more ‘optional’ benefits than any other state which increases the cost dramatically. We should be encouraging people and businesses to come here for the job opportunities and not because we promise these taxpayer-funded handouts.”
March 20, 2017 _ _
HAWLEY CALLS FOR END OF RECKLESS SPENDING TO REPAIR & REPLACE ILLEGAL THRUWAY SIGNS
A Statement from Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia)
“Only in New York can you use taxpayer money in plain sight to fund illegal activities and no one bats an eye. This is a clear and reckless abuse of taxpayer-funded resources. These signs were deemed illegal by the federal government to begin with, and state leaders went ahead and put them up anyway at an extremely high cost to taxpayers.
“We have already spent over $25 million in taxpayer money to engineer, build and install these signs all over the Thruway and now are spending more of our money to repair them after our devastating wind storm. As I said last week, I am calling on the governor to halt the repair and installation of these signs and use that money to repair our roads and infrastructure after the recent terrible wind storm. It is possible these signs being blown down was a message from above and the governor should consider that if he continues to waste the people’s money on their maintenance.”
March 15, 2017 _ _
ONE-HOUSE BUDGET MISSES MARK, BUT SOME HIDDEN GEMS FOR WESTERN NY
A Statement from Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) on the Assembly’s One-House Budget Resolution
“It comes as no surprise that the Assembly’s One-House Budget Resolution, crafted in secret by New York City politicians, increases taxes and spending and shifts our state’s resources in a way that seemingly benefits illegal aliens and criminals as much as taxpaying citizens. This is a 3% spending increase over last year and it is disingenuous to force our municipalities to stay within the 2% tax cap when the legislature is not required to do so. We should lead by example and walk the walk.
“I will not stand for free college giveaways like the DREAM Act, Raise the Age, which protects violent felony offenders or the Essential Plan, which gives high-end healthcare plans to illegals on our dime.
“Despite these misplaced priorities, billions to fund clean water infrastructure upgrades, an increase in school aid, an increase in local agriculture assistance and a $500 million proposed investment in the Consolidated Local Street and Highway Improvement Program (CHIPS) will go a long way toward improving and strengthening our community if they make it into the final enacted state budget. Expect me to remain vigilant and fight for these initiatives in the coming weeks.
“Furthermore, I am encouraged by the proposed $4 million restoration in Library Aid that the governor planned on cutting. I have worked diligently over the last few months to restore this funding and even wrote a letter to Speaker Heastie with signatures of 62 legislators from both sides of the aisle.”
March 13, 2017 _ _
HAWLEY CALLS FOR INCREASED TRANSPARENCY, ETHICS REFORM TO START SUNSHINE WEEK
A statement from Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) on week dedicated to increased openness, accountability and transparency
“Sunshine week is a tremendous opportunity we have as public officials to inject trust and integrity back into Albany politics. Unfortunately, year after year, Albany’s budget process seems to be the opposite. The governor and house leaders have routinely kept many rank-and-file legislators completely in the dark on budget negotiations, only to thrust a series of very long bills on our desks in the middle of the night for a rushed vote, and that is unacceptable.
“Let’s not forget it was New York City special interests who voted against 12 reforms put on the table by my upstate Assembly colleagues and I, which would have set term limits for legislative leaders, put restrictions on messages of necessity and required a three-day input process before legislation could be voted upon. The best way to cut through the dark cloud of secrecy and backroom dealings is sunshine, and I will be working to pull back the curtains as we move forward.”
March 10, 2017 _ _
ROADS AND RAFFLES: A BUDGET FOR US
With the state budget deadline quickly approaching, I am keeping my finger on Albany’s pulse of often convoluted and secretive budget negotiations. Now, just because the governor and legislative leaders struggle with transparency doesn’t mean we can’t get some major things done for Western New York and the 139th Assembly District. Believe me when I say I will be fighting for you every step of the way and will put ideas at the forefront that will directly benefit our community.
The issues surrounding our area’s charitable raffles and fundraisers have been well documented over the past year, and what happened to the Stafford Car Raffle was nothing short of a tragedy. I have been working diligently with legislative leaders to garner support for the 2017 Charitable Gaming Act and am encouraged that it will be included as part of the final state budget. We need to re-empower the thousands of fire departments, non-profits, churches and charitable organizations across the state to continue to do God’s work, and that starts with enacting these common-sense changes in the Legislature.
There is no doubt that safe and reliable infrastructure is the gateway to economic development and a flourishing community. Unfortunately, our roads, bridges and highways are under constant bombardment from traffic and damaging weather, which is why it is so imperative to secure adequate state funding for things like bridge maintenance, pothole repairs and projects that will make our community a more comfortable place to live and visit.
I was proud to join my colleagues in Albany earlier this week to call for an additional $150 million investment in the Consolidated Local Street and Highway Improvement Program (CHIPS) and additional money for the PAVE-NY program. Doing so will help mitigate damaging potholes and unsafe bridges and empower our towns and villages to make consistent repairs.
Expect me to continue to beat the drum in Albany for us throughout this budget process and fight each day to make sure Western New York gets its fair share. The tradition of sending our tax dollars down to New York City and pork barrel spending needs to end. We are part of New York too and deserve the same treatment.
Assemblyman Hawley represents the 139th District, which consists of Genesee, Orleans and parts of Monroe County. For more information, please visit Assemblyman Hawley’s Official Website.
HAWLEY CALLS FOR ANSWERS TO HOW GOV. WILL HANDLE ILLEGAL SIGNS AFTER WIND STORM
A Statement from Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia)
“This week, residents of Western New York were devastated by a hurricane-like storm that caused major damage and left thousands without power. We are now focused on cleaning up the mess left behind by the storm and ensuring that everyone is safe and has power.
“The powerful winds blew many signs down in my district, including at least three ‘I Love NY’ signs at mile post 381 on the Thruway just east of Batavia. These gimmicks cost taxpayers $25 million and were installed by the governor despite being in violation of federal law. I am calling on the governor not to waste another cent of taxpayer money on these illegal signs and put that money into repairing our infrastructure and the damages from this horrific wind storm that wreaked havoc on our region.”
Assemblyman Hawley represents the 139th District, which consists of Genesee, Orleans and Parts of Monroe County. For more information, please visit Assemblyman Hawley’s Official Website.
March 8, 2017 _ _ _
HAWLEY ISSUES STATEMENT ON INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY
A Statement from Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia)
A plaque displaying Hawley’s Aunt, Ella Hawley Crossett, hangs in the first floor of the Capitol in Albany
“Today we take time to celebrate women around the world and the tremendous and meaningful contributions they have made to society. I am proud to say in the last two years I helped usher through a comprehensive package of women’s equality laws in the Legislature that protect against sexual harassment, pregnancy discrimination and toughen penalties for domestic violence.
“New York has a proud and honored legacy of pushing for women’s rights and protections. The birth of the women’s rights movement happened in Seneca Falls – right in our backyard. My grandmother, Emma Morris Hawley, who served on the Batavia School Board, was one of the first women elected to a school board in New York State, and my Great Aunt, Ella Hawley Crossett, stood alongside Susan B. Anthony in the fight for women’s rights.
“We have come so far as a state and a nation in furthering women’s rights and I look forward to continuing to champion that cause in the years to come.”
Assemblyman Hawley represents the 139th District, which consists of Genesee, Orleans and Parts of Monroe County. For more information, please visit Assemblyman Hawley’s Official Website.
March 1, 2017 _ _ _
HAWLEY ANNOUNCES ‘2017 CHARITABLE GAMING ACT’ HAS BEEN INTRODUCED
Urges vote on legislation to restore Stafford Car Raffle that was vetoed by Gov. Cuomo last year
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) today announced that legislation to amend New York’s antiquated gaming laws and help restore the Stafford Fire Department’s historic car raffle has been introduced in the Assembly and is awaiting a vote in the Racing and Wagering Committee. Hawley, who is co-sponsoring this bill, was influential in ushering very similar legislation through the Assembly last year only for it to be vetoed by Gov. Cuomo.
“I am excited to announce that we have introduced the Charitable Gaming Act of 2017, and I look forward to garnering support throughout the Legislature and seeing that this bill finally becomes law,” Hawley said. “This is not only to help the Stafford Fire Department recover its famous car raffle, but also to empower the tens of thousands of churches, non-profits, fire departments and charitable organizations that raise money for noble causes and rely on raffles to sustain themselves. I would like to thank Assemblyman Robin Schimminger (D-Buffalo), Sen. Patrick Gallivan (R-Elma) and the rest of my Assembly and Senate colleagues for their support on this important issue.”
HAWLEY JOINS COLLEAGUES IN CALLING FOR REPEAL OF NY SAFE ACT UPSTATE
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) [right] poses for a photo with New York State Rifle and Pistol Association President Tom King at today’s press conference in Albany
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) today joined his colleagues in Albany for a press conference to call for a repeal of provisions of the infamous NY SAFE Act in Upstate New York and on Long Island. Legislation was introduced, which Hawley sponsors, which would limit the gun control measure to the counties of Kings, Queens, Bronx, New York and Richmond.
“It is long beyond time for the unconstitutional SAFE Act to be repealed in Upstate New York,” Hawley said. “Setting aside the facts that this bill was passed secretively in the middle of the night and is in direct violation of the Second Amendment, upstate families and businesses are less safe because of this law. Unlike in New York City where police are readily available, upstate citizens deserve to be able to protect their families in the event of an intruder, especially in rural areas where law enforcement may be many miles away.”
Hawley’s ‘Two New York’s’ bill was mentioned prominently during the press conference as an example of how different areas of the state can be carved out for various policy implementations. Hawley, a longtime supporter of the Second Amendment, hunters, sportsmen and local S.C.O.P.E. chapters, was one of the first to come out against the SAFE Act, which was rushed through the Legislature in the middle of the night with little to no public or stakeholder input.
“There has long existed a cultural difference between New York City and upstate that has dictated policy,” Hawley said. “If downstate special interests can carve out special zones for policy initiatives like ride-sharing, the minimum wage, the property-tax cap and local government assistance and include them in budget bills, then there is no reason upstate residents should have to abide by these laws that were specifically pushed by New York City politicians. I am calling on Assembly and Senate leadership to include our bill as part of budget negotiations and eliminate upstate New York from the SAFE-Act’s unlawful regulations.”
February 13, 2017 __ _
HAWLEY JOINS COLLEAGUES IN ALBANY TO INTRODUCE INCLUSIVE AND AMBITIOUS HIGHER EDUCATION PROPOSALS
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) seen holding a summary of the ‘Affordable College for All Initiative’ proposed today by the Assembly Minority Conference
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) today attended a press conference held by Assembly Minority Leader Brian M. Kolb (R,C,I,Ref-Canandaigua) to call for a number of higher education reforms that would help a greater number of students to afford college and those who are struggling to pay off students loans. Among the proposals are measures to increase the maximum award per student under the Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) and increase the household income cap threshold for more students to qualify for TAP. Furthermore, the Assembly Minority Conference is proposing that principle and interest be tax deductible for student loan payments.
“A college education is one of the gateways to a more prosperous future,” Hawley said. “The governor’s taxpayer-funded college tuition proposal is limiting in the number of students that will be affected, while our proposal will aid more low-income students and those in graduate school. We cannot continue to alienate graduate students and those pursuing an advanced degree. A better-educated New York means more financially-stable families and more career-ready students upon graduation.”
February 7, 2017 __ _
HAWLEY CALLS FOR VOTE ON LEGISLATION TO AID DEVELOPMENTALLY DISABLED FOLLOWING PRESSER
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) [far left] joined legislators in Albany this morning to present the Assembly Minority’s C.A.R.E.S. Plan to aid the developmentally disabled community
**EDITOR’S NOTE: Click Here to watch Assemblyman Hawley’s Post Press Conference Interview
After attending a press conference held in Albany by Assembly Minority Leader Brian M. Kolb (R,C,I,Ref-Canandaigua) and Assemblyman Clifford W. Crouch (R-Bainbridge), Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) is calling for a vote on legislation that would increase accessibility to services and offer added protections for those with developmental disabilities.
“Protecting New York’s most vulnerable is one of the preeminent aims of my public service and I was proud to host one of our Conference’s task force forums in my Assembly District,” Hawley said. “Groups such as the Genesee/Orleans ARC right here in Western New York are fighting each day to provide access to education, employment and personal growth for those with disabilities and I applaud their efforts. It is crucial that we protect and provide adequate aid to our direct care workers who are in danger of losing funding due to the minimum wage increase. These are the dedicated men and women on the frontlines of care and it is crucial to empower them as best we can.”
Hawley, a staunch support of those with developmental disabilities and organizations like the Genesee/Orleans ARC, was influential in restoring a $90 million cut to the Office of People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) proposed in 2013 by New York City liberals and Gov. Cuomo.
“Now we need to do our part in the Legislature and pass this package of bills that incorporates ideas and concerns we have heard at the grassroots level. I am calling on Assembly leadership and Gov. Cuomo to bring these bills to the floor for a vote immediately.”
February 6, 2017 __ _
HAWLEY DECRIES PACKAGE OF IMMIGRATION BILLS, TAXPAYER FUNDING FOR SANCTUARY CITIES, DREAM ACT
A Statement from Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia)
“The package of bills passed today by New York City liberals is irresponsible, politically motivated and downright dangerous. We are talking about bucking federal immigration law and using New York’s tax dollars to protect people who are here illegally. Sanctuary cities leave the door open for crime and strip our local law enforcement of the powers necessary to enforce immigration law and protect our families.”
“It illustrates the volatility of such legislation that only New York City members could stomach voting yes on one measure to bolster sanctuary cities and protect illegal aliens from being deported. This is clearly Mayor DeBlasio pushing his liberal agenda on upstate and another reason why we need to bring my ‘Two New Yorks’ bill to the floor for a vote.”
“Why are we talking about giving away free handouts through programs like the DREAM Act, when legal, middle-class families across the state are struggling to afford a college education and already face the highest taxes in the nation? All these bills fly in the face of already-established federal law, make our communities less safe and place a larger financial burden on taxpayers.”
HAWLEY: CUOMO CONTINUES TO ALIENATE WESTERN NY, PROPOSES HEAVY TAXES ON UPSTATE DRIVERS
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) today spoke out against Gov. Cuomo’s proposal to raise state revenues by taxing New York’s drivers 50 percent more to obtain a certificate of title and 100 percent more to obtain a duplicate certificate of title on motor vehicles. The governor has proposed this as part of his executive budget, with the additional revenues going to the Dedicated Highway and Bridge Trust Fund.
“This is another perfect example of the governor’s misguided and oppressive policies toward Upstate New York,” Hawley said. “These hefty tax increases might be tolerable if the money was put back into repairing the local roads, bridges and highways from which it was collected. But, we run the risk of much of the money being funneled down to Gov. Cuomo’s voter and donor base in New York City, which already spends tens of billions of dollars in taxpayer money on its infrastructure. Our citizens and businesses up here need their own vehicles to work and travel, and I will fight this tyrannical tax during budget negotiations this year.”
January 30, 2017 __ _
HAWLEY PROPOSES SAFEGUARD AGAINST MESSAGES OF NECESSITY, APPLAUDS PASSAGE OF PENSION FORFEITURE BILL
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) proposed a measure on the Assembly floor today that would require a two-thirds vote of the house for Messages of Necessity to be accepted when issued by the governor. Legislation is usually subject to an “aging” period of three days before it can be voted on, but Messages of Necessity are issued by the governor to forgo this process and rush a vote on important and/or controversial legislation, as was done with the SAFE Act.
“Messages of Necessity should only be used in extreme circumstances, and all legislation should be subject to proper vetting and examination instead of being irresponsibly rushed through the legislative process,” Hawley said. ”This tactic is often used to pass legislation before the public and media have time to criticize it, and that is cowardly. I am disappointed this proposal was voted down by the Assembly Majority but I will continue to beat the drum for ethics reform in Albany.”
The Assembly also took the next step toward stripping pension and retirement benefits from corrupt lawmakers today by passing a constitutional amendment which has been championed by the Assembly Minority for years.
“I was pleased that the Assembly passed our pension forfeiture bill today and took an important step toward breaking down Albany’s culture of corruption and malfeasance,” Hawley said. “Corrupt lawmakers should never be allowed to collect a taxpayer-funded pension after betraying the public trust, and I am proud to have voted for this measure.”
If the bill passes the Senate this year, it must be approved by voters as a statewide referendum before becoming law.
January 20, 2017 __ _
HAWLEY ANNOUNCES EXPANSION OF LAW TO PROTECT VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTERS AND FIRST RESPONDERS
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) today announced an expansion of the “Move Over” Law designed to protect our police, tow trucks, emergency vehicles and now volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers. The law, which has already been in effect for a number of years, requires drivers to move over one lane to give room and provide safety for first responders attending to a car accident, law enforcement stop or disabled vehicle.
“Any time we can provide a safer environment for our selfless and dedicated first responders to do their job it is a good thing,” Hawley said. “Volunteer firefighters and emergency responders dedicate an extraordinary amount of time to protect and save the lives of residents in their community, many of whom are usually strangers.”
A public service announcement detailing the importance of this measure is currently being broadcast on television and radio and can be seen here.
“Highways and high-speed roads are all dangerous places for police and emergency vehicles to operate with little room on the shoulder, so providing this extra space minimizes risk and will provide them the peace of mind that other drivers are a safe distance away,” Hawley said. “I applaud this expansion of the law and, as always, hope our men and women in blue and all first responders are safe while out there making Western New York a better place.”
For more information on traffic safety in New York State, please visit http://www.safeny.ny.gov/.
January 18, 2017 __ _
GOV. IGNORES LEGISLATURE, HOLDS SERIES OF SECRET MEETINGS TO UNVEIL EXECUTIVE BUDGET
A statement from Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) on Gov. Cuomo’s secret
Executive Budget process
“Just when you think Albany’s budget process couldn’t get any more secretive, dysfunctional and convoluted, Gov. Cuomo surprises us once again. In an apparent attempt to shield himself from criticism, the Governor locked himself in his mansion last night and toyed with legislators and the media before finally releasing his budget documents mere hours before the deadline.
“Albany has hit an all-time low in terms of transparency and open government as the governor continues to put his selfishness and political ambitions above good governance and responsibility.
“It was self-serving and politically motivated enough for the Governor to embark on a statewide publicity tour to spread his radical left-wing agenda aimed at a presidential run and to buy a multi-million dollar helicopter on our dime in the process.”
January 11, 2017 __ _
GOV. SACRIFICES NEW YORK TAXPAYERS FOR PRESIDENTIAL AMBITION
A statement from Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia)
“Gov. Cuomo’s theatrical and unnecessary State of the State Tour is an abuse of taxpayer money and alienates us as legislators who will be ultimately responsible for vetting and voting on important legislation. It is shameful for the governor to ignore the Legislature and plan these speeches on session days due to a pay raise battle with members of the Assembly Majority, demeaning all legislators in the process.
“Nearly 200,000 residents have left New York for more tax-friendly states in the past year and a half, and that is embarrassing. Still, Gov. Cuomo’s State of the State speeches so far have done virtually nothing to address our outrageous tax burden, failing infrastructure and struggling small-business community. Clearly, Gov. Cuomo cares more about his 2020 presidential ambitions than his own constituents.”
January 4, 2017 __ _
CUOMO TO SHAMELESSLY HOLD WESTERN NY STATE OF STATE ADDRESS WHILE LOCAL LEGISLATORS IN ALBANY, HAWLEY PENS LETTER ASKING FOR DIRECT ADDRESS TO LEGISLATURE
As a result of the governor’s unorthodox Western New York regional State of the State Address set to take place next Monday when the legislature is in session, Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) has sent a letter to Senate Majority Leader John Flanagan (R-Long Island), Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie (D-Bronx), Gov. Cuomo and Assembly Minority Leader Brian M. Kolb (R,C,I,Ref-Canandaigua) calling for a joint legislative session for the governor to address the Legislature directly.
“It is disrespectful and irresponsible to force me to choose between serving my constituents in Albany on a mandated session day and be present for our local state of the state address,” Hawley said. “I am writing to respectfully urge you to convene a joint session of the New York State Legislature and request that Gov. Cuomo communicate directly to the State Legislature his message regarding the condition of the State…” Hawley wrote in the letter.
Gov. Cuomo plans to bring his annual State of the State message to regional locations statewide beginning January 9. The projected stops include: New York City, Western New York, the Hudson Valley, Long Island, the Capital Region and Central New York. Western New York’s presentation will be at 3 p.m. on January 9.
“While I understand the importance and benefit of going public and bringing a tailored message directly to constituent groups with varying local interests, I contend that these regional State of the State Addresses ignore the group which the message was originally intended for, the New York State Legislature,” Hawley said. “We are the group that is directly responsible for reviewing and voting on legislation and moving bills through the process, so to ignore us as a whole would be grossly irresponsible.”
January 3, 2017 __ _
HAWLEY REAPPOINTED ASSISTANT MINORITY LEADER, TAKES IMPORTANT ROLE ON ASSEMBLY RULES COMMITTEE
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) announced today that he has been reappointed Assistant Minority Leader of the Assembly and will sit on the Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, Insurance, Ways and Means and Rules Committees.
“After a relaxing holiday season, I am excited to get back to work on behalf of the citizens in my district and continue to make strides rebuilding our infrastructure, securing crucial education funding, protecting our vets and fighting Albany corruption,” Hawley said. “I am overjoyed to have the great opportunity to serve on such important committees in the Assembly, and look forward to offering my expertise as a small-business owner when it comes to insurance and agriculture issues.”
This is the first term that Hawley will serve on the Rules Committee, which is the final stop for many bills before they reach the floor for a vote. It is also the group that controls many important operations of the House.
“The Assembly Rules Committee is one of the most important governing bodies in Albany, and I couldn’t be more honored to serve as one of its members,” Hawley said. “This committee is usually the final stop for legislation before it either comes to the floor for a vote or dies in committee. This is an excellent opportunity to safeguard upstate against radical and misguided legislation supported by downstate special interests, and I plan to do just that.”
