December 22, 2017
HOLIDAY GREETINGS FROM ASSEMBLYMAN STEVE HAWLEY
A Statement from Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia)
“The end of the year holiday season is an invaluable time in that it provides a warmth and comfort unique to many other holidays we experience. There’s nothing like joining one’s closest family and friends around the gentle ambiance of a steady snowfall to exchange gifts amidst your favorite Christmas movie. The new year provides us the time to reflect on what we have accomplished the previous year and use missed opportunities to inspire us to set more aggressive goals, opportunities and challenges for ourselves.
“As we soak up this relaxing time of year away from the hustle and bustle of our stressful lives, let us not forget the dedicated servicemen and servicewomen who are forgoing the holidays with their families to protect our freedom and way of life. The sacrifices of our veterans and active duty military make it possible for us to enjoy this sacred time of year.
“Furthermore, I know how holiday shopping can place added financial and emotional stress on many families as we strive to beat the Christmas Eve crowds and find that perfect gift for a loved one or friend. But, please keep in mind during this time that many families are not fortunate enough to afford lavish gifts and meals. This could be your co-worker, your neighbor, family member or friend. I encourage everyone who has the means to consider volunteering or making a donation to one of the great organizations we have in our community this year and you will be helping a family more than you know.”
- The Salvation Army provides clothing and other necessities to those in need during the holiday season. Donate today by visiting http://empire.salvationarmy.org/.
- Consider donating a holiday basket to a needy family through the Community Action of Orleans and Genesee by visiting http://www.caoginc.org/.
- Make a child’s Christmas wish come true by donating to Toys for Tots at www.toysfortots.org.
Consider volunteering or donating with the Ministry of Concern’s many great community programs-(585)-589-9210
http://www.ministryofconcern.com/home.html
HAWLEY NAMED TO 2017 FARM BUREAU CIRCLE OF FRIENDS
A Statement from Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia)
“I am honored to be named to the Farm Bureau’s Circle of Friends for 2017. Agriculture is such an important part of Western New York’s economy, and we have so many dedicated farmers and producers locally who battle excessive rain, drought and other obstacles to feed our state. Whether it’s dairy, livestock or vegetables, our products are in grocery stores across the nation and that is a testament to the devotion and will of our area’s farmers.
“As the former owner and operator of our family-owned farm in Batavia for many years, I know the challenges our producers face, and that is why I will always have the backs of these dedicated men and women. I look forward to another productive year in Albany and will strive to keep New York’s farming industry the best in the nation.”
December 20, 2017
HAWLEY REMINDS RESIDENTS OF UPCOMING FLOOD RECOVERY APPLICATION DEADLINES
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I- Batavia) today reminded residents and business owners affected by Lake Ontario’s historic flooding this past spring of the upcoming federal and state application deadlines to receive financial assistance relating to damages they may have.
“Lake Ontario’s devastating flooding has caused a great deal of hardship, both emotional and financial, for many residents and business owners along the shoreline,” Hawley said. “Fortunately, there are many resources available to aid in recovery, and I encourage all residents and business owners to keep a close eye on the upcoming deadlines and submit their applications accordingly. As always throughout this difficult time, my office is available to assist in this process so please feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns.”
Applications for New York’s Small Business Recovery Fund through Empire State Development are due on December 29, 2017 and more information can be found here. Eligible Private Non-Profit organizations can also receive funding through the U.S. Small Business Administration. Applications are due by January 16, 2018 and more information can be found here.
December 19, 2017 _ _
HAWLEY ANNOUNCES CHARITABLE GAMING ACT SIGNED INTO LAW
A Statement from Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia)
“This is a tremendous victory and crucial first step toward reforming our gaming laws for the tens of thousands of non-profits, fire departments, churches, Rotary and Kiwanis Clubs and charitable organizations throughout the state.
“After a long uphill climb, and with much help from my colleagues in the Assembly and Senate, we have made important changes to New York’s gaming laws that open the conversation and serve as a catapult to tackle more changes this year.
“I would like to personally thank Assemblyman Robin Schimminger (D-Buffalo) for carrying this bill in our house and Senators Patrick Gallivan (R-Elma), Michael Ranzenhofer (R-Amherst) and Rob Ortt (R-North Tonawanda) for championing this cause in the Senate. I would also like to thank all the constituents and local groups who contacted my office and the governor’s office expressing their support for this bill.
“The law will take effect in 180 days and the New York State Gaming Commission will make any necessary tweaks. I am so proud of the work we have done and I am hopeful that moving forward we continue to advocate for our charitable and non-profit organizations and make more changes to the state’s gaming laws.”
HAWLEY STANDS BEHIND SMALL BUSINESSES AMIDST GOV.’S NEW PROPOSAL
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) today criticized Gov. Cuomo’s new proposal to mandate businesses pay the same minimum wage to tipped workers as other employees in their region. The plan calls for the New York State Department of Labor to hold hearings to gain input on the issue. Gov. Cuomo signed legislation in 2016 that increases the minimum wage in New York City, Long Island and Westchester to $15 per hour by 2021 and at least $12.50 per hour for the rest of the state.
“The governor’s war on small businesses continues with this new proposal,” Hawley said. “Many workers in the service industry are competitively compensated due to the large share of their income that is comprised of tips. By allowing our employees to be paid by tips we are letting their performance and work ethic determine their income to a large extent which raises standards across the industry and provides a better quality of service. Another minimum wage hike will surely be a blow to small businesses and stifle job creation when what we need is tax and regulatory reform to allow these companies to thrive.”
December 14, 2017 _ _
HAWLEY ANNOUNCES NUMEROUS NEW PROJECTS AS PART OF 2017 REDC AWARDS
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) today announced a number of new local economic development projects are being funding as part of the 2017 Regional Economic Development Council Awards (REDC).
“The benefits of economic development influence many facets of our region like encouraging new and expanding businesses, increased tourism and supporting community resources like libraries and historical sites that people visit each day and bolstering our tax base,” Hawley said. “I am very proud to announce that our community has received such a large commitment in economic development funding, and very much look forward to the completion of these projects and the benefits they will bring all of us.”
Projects to be funded within the 139th Assembly District include:
- $333,000- City of Batavia Water System Improvements
- $180,000- First Light Creamery Expansion
- $30,000- Town of Batavia Wastewater Treatment Assessment Planning
- $30,000- Village of Bergen Wastewater Treatment Plant Disinfection Study
- $1,000,000- Village of Oakfield Wastewater Treatment Facility Improvements
- $1,000,000- Village of Oakfield Wastewater Treatment Plant Improvements
- $180,000- Western Region Off-Track Betting Paddock Improvements
- $250,000- Barsuk Recycling Railroad Infrastructure
- $100,000- Monroe County Development of a county-wide storm water system map
- $57,000- The College at Brockport will construct a new trail along the Erie Canal
- $62,000- Orleans County Local Waterfront Revitalization Program
- $50,000- Orleans County Water Sewer Efficiency Study
- $37,500- Village of Medina Local Waterfront Revitalization Program
December 12, 2017 _ _
HAWLEY TO HOST FREE YELLOW DOT PROGRAMS IN CORFU AND ALBION
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) announced today that he will be hosting two free Yellow Dot programs later this week in Albion and Corfu. The programs will be conducted by both the Orleans and Genesee County Sheriff Departments with Orleans County Sheriff Randall Bower, Genesee County Sheriff William Sheron, Jr. and Undersheriff Gregory Walker expected to attend. Yellow Dot is designed to help first responders provide life-saving medical attention during that first “golden hour” after a car crash or emergency.
“Yellow Dot is truly a life-saving program,” Hawley said. “This is a free program that is especially important as road conditions become more dangerous during the winter months. Participating in the Yellow Dot Program is as easy as filling out a brief medical card and placing the yellow dot sticker on your car window. I encourage all who are available to stop by and pick up your free Yellow Dot Kit at one of these events this week or contact your local sheriff’s department.”
WHO: Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia)
Genesee County Sheriff William Sheron Jr.
Genesee County Undersheriff Gregory Walker
Orleans County Sheriff Randall Bower
WHAT: Free Yellow Dot Program
WHEN/WHERE: Wednesday, December 13, 12:30 p.m.
Albion Academy Apartments
South Entrance, 16 E Academy St., Albion
Thursday, December 14, 12:30 p.m.
Corfu United Presbyterian Church
63 Alleghany Rd., Corfu
HAWLEY TO PISTOL OWNERS: ‘PRESERVE THE 2ND AMENDMENT BY KEEPING YOUR PISTOL CERTIFIED’
In his ongoing efforts to preserve our Second Amendment rights, Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) today reminded pistol permit holders to recertify their permits by January 31, 2018 in order to prevent them from becoming invalid. If your pistol permit was issued before January 15, 2013, you must recertify your permit before January 31, 2018. If your permit was issued on or prior January 15, 2013, the deadline is five years after the date the permit was issued.
“Unfortunately, this is a new mandate on pistol permit holders in New York and the first year that owners have to recertify,” Hawley said. “The deadline is coming up and many New Yorkers may be unaware of these new requirements. As much as we may disagree with the unconstitutional Safe Act, if we come out in droves to recertify it will send the message to state leadership that we cherish our Second Amendment right to bear arms, and will not be silenced by any big government policies, as frustrating as they might seem.”
If you are a New York state pistol permit holder and need to recertify your license or would like more information, please visit the New York State Trooper Website here. Additionally, feel free to contact my office with questions at (585) 589-5780, or email me at [email protected].
December 7, 2017 _ _
HAWLEY REFLECTS ON ANNIVERSARY OF PEARL HARBOR
A Statement from Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) on the anniversary of the attacks on Pearl Harbor
“The cowardly attacks on the U.S. Naval Base in Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941 represent a turning point in our nation’s history. More than 2,000 brave men and women lost their lives defending our soil and way of life that day and the courage and resolve of those dauntless souls shall never be forgotten.
“After this tragic attack, we realized that the forces of evil will stop at nothing to destroy us and came together as Americans to preserve our democracy. It is critical that we remain vigilant and strong as new threats continue to arise against America and recognize the sanctity of liberty and freedom above ourselves.
“As the son of a World War II veteran and a veteran myself, I can attest to the dedication and sacrifice of our state’s veterans and active service members and hold them dear to my heart as a strive to give them a voice in Albany. It is through the courage and fortitude of the devoted men and women of our armed forces that we stand today as the strongest nation on Earth and they deserve our thanks and praise.
“I would like to recognize and thank all surviving World War II veterans and their families for what they have done to protect our country. I also ask that you please take a moment to thank and recognize a veteran or active service member on this special day.”
HAWLEY IMPLORES GOV TO SIGN CHARITABLE GAMING ACT
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) announced today that the 2017 Charitable Gaming Act has been delivered to Gov. Cuomo for his approval or veto. The bipartisan measure, ushered through the Legislature this spring, provides a host of benefits to charitable organizations and non-profits that hold raffles and fundraisers across the state. Hawley has been fighting for this bill to become law ever since the cancellation of the Stafford Fire Department’s classic car raffle.
“Gov. Cuomo now has the unilateral power to do what is right for the tens of thousands of churches, fire departments, non-profits and charitable organizations that raise money to support themselves or help the less fortunate throughout our state,” Hawley said. “I would like to thank Sen. Patrick Gallivan (R-Elma), Sen. Rob Ortt (R-North Tonawanda) and Sen. Michael Ranzenhofer (R-Amherst) for championing this bill in the Senate and Assemblyman Robin Schimminger (D-Buffalo) for introducing this legislation in the Assembly. Although I was a prime co-sponsor in the house, this was truly collaboration and I thank all of my legislative colleagues for their diligence. I call on the governor to sign this bill into law immediately and back the dedicated men and women who are handcuffed by these archaic statutes.”
Join Assemblyman Hawley in calling on Gov. Cuomo to sign the Charitable Gaming Act into law by calling or writing the governor’s office at:
518-474-8390
The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo
Governor of New York State
NYS State Capitol Building
Albany, NY 12224
November 27, 2017 _ _
HAWLEY ANNOUNCES MAJOR BRIDGE REPAIRS COMING TO ORLEANS COUNTY
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I- Batavia) proudly announced today that seven single-lane bridges that cross the Erie Canal throughout Orleans County will be receiving major repairs. Bridges in the towns of Murray, Albion, Gaines, Median and Ridgeway will undergo concrete and steel truss repair as well as painting in some circumstances.
“I am pleased to announce that a number of bridges throughout Orleans County will be rehabilitated,” Hawley said. “These bridges were built around the turn of the 20th Century and have carried countless residents closer to their destinations, but no one should have to hold their breath crossing them. Routine maintenance and construction of local infrastructure is paramount to ensure our community is safe and functioning at its best, and that starts with secure and reliable bridges.”
A list of bridge repairs are as follows: Bennetts Corners Road, Telegraph Road and Transit Road in Murray; Densmore Road in Albion; Gaines Basin Road in the Town of Gaines; Bates Road in the Village of Medina and Marshall Road in the Town of Ridgeway.
Construction is anticipated to begin this coming summer and expected to be completed by the summer of 2020.
November 20, 2017 _ _
GIVING BACK GIVES MEANING TO THE HOLIDAY SEASON
As we near this year’s turkey day, Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) is wishing residents an enjoyable and safe Thanksgiving holiday while also asking them to consider donating some food or their time to a local food pantry or organization to help those who are less fortunate enjoy a warm Thanksgiving meal.
“Thanksgiving is one of the most important holidays of the year in that it allows us pause in our busy and stressful lives to reflect on what is truly important, our collective bond as families and a community and the good fortune we have enjoyed over the past year,” Hawley said. “Unfortunately, not all families are privileged enough to afford a large meal this Thanksgiving, and it is especially important during this time to come together as a community and help those in need.
“Something as simple as a couple of cans of food or box of stuffing will mean so much to a local family, and I encourage everyone who is able to donate a couple of items or their time to one of our local food pantries or organizations which do tremendous work this time of year,” Hawley said
Visit http://www.foodpantries.org/st/new_york to find a food pantry or donate to one of our local options here in Western New York:
Genesee County Food Pantries:
Salvation Army
529 E. Main Street, Batavia, NY
Community Action of Orleans and Genesee
5073 Clinton St. Road, Batavia, NY
Le Roy Pantry and Help Fund, Inc.
48 Main Street, Le Roy, NY
(585) 768-4559
Orleans County
Orleans Community Action
409 E State St, Albion, NY 14411
(585) 589-5605
Monroe County:
Hilton Parma Emergency Food Shelf
59 Henry Street, Room 11B, Hilton Community Center
Hilton, NY 14468
(585) 234-209
Life Solutions of Hamlin Inc
1696 Lake Rd., Hamlin
(585) 964-7420
Brockport Food Shelf
14 State St, Brockport, NY 14420
Albion: http://www.foodpantries.org/ci/ny-albion
Holley: http://www.foodpantries.org/city.php?city=Holley&st=NY
Lyndonville: http://www.foodpantries.org/city.php?city=Lyndonville&st=NY
November 16, 2017 _ _
SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY BUILDS A STRONGER COMMUNITY
“As we kick off the bustling holiday season on Black Friday, it is important to consider shopping at some of our locally-owned, small businesses this weekend for Small Business Saturday. The dedicated men and women that own and operate these businesses take pride in the products they sell and are crucial in growing our local economy.
“As a small business owner/operator for several decades, I know first-hand the trials and tribulations of our state’s business owners and have strived to become their voice in Albany. By patronizing these tremendous companies this weekend you will undoubtedly take part in helping to create local jobs, stimulate our economy and make Western New York a fantastic place to do business.”
November 14, 2017 _ _
HAWLEY PRAISES ANNOUNCEMENT OF NEW
VETERAN LICENSE PLATES
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) praised the announcement of new veteran license plates. The new service branch-specific license plates are available for the U.S. Army, U.S. Navy, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Marines.
“Our veterans have made a tremendous sacrifice for our country and our state,” said Hawley. “This is an opportunity for each of them to be recognized for the commitment they’ve made for all of us. As the start of a new session approaches I look forward to working with my colleagues to pass more legislation that will inevitably improve the lives of our veterans across the state.”
The new custom plates, made available for the first time in New York, join a number of others offered in the Veteran and Military series, including the Purple Heart Recipient, Vietnam Veteran and War on Terror Veteran license plates.
In order to purchase a custom plate, New Yorkers are required to validate their military service with a copy of their discharge papers (DD-214 or equivalent documentation) and mail a copy with a completed application, found here.
HAWLEY RECOGNIZED WITH HIGH SCORE BY STATE CONSERVATIVE PARTY
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) was recognized earlier this month for an exemplary commitment to the policies endorsed by the New York State Conservative Party. The party’s executive committee determined the score based on each state legislator’s voting record across a diverse sample of legislation from this year’s session. Hawley had the highest score with a rating of 92 out of 100.
“I am honored to be presented with this rating by the Conservative Party of New York State,” said Hawley. “This rating exemplifies the discipline and commitment to the policies that we must support if we intend to develop a stronger and healthier economy for job seekers and job creators alike. Policies such as keeping taxes low so more money stays in the pockets of our families and cutting red tape so businesses can hire, expand, and operate profitably are all measures I voted for and I believe will inevitably bring economic growth to our state.”
A link to the full list of rankings can be found here.
October 31, 2017 _ _
HAWLEY REFLECTS ON
100th ANNIVERSARY OF WOMEN’S SUFFRAGE
As part of his efforts to commemorate the centennial of women’s suffrage, Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) took some time to reflect on his family’s personal connection to the events in Seneca Falls that led to women gaining the right to vote in New York State 100 years ago today.
Hawley’s paternal great aunt, Ella Hawley Crossett of Warsaw, was also active in the suffrage movement throughout her entire life, worked alongside Susan B. Anthony, and is honored for her efforts in a commemorative plaque in the state Capitol in Albany (photo pictured above). On his mother’s side of the family, Hawley’s grandmother, Tusanelda Nusbickel Simpson, spoke at the Seneca Falls Convention held 100 years ago. On that historic trip, she brought along her daughter, the assemblyman’s aunt, Mary Simpson Smart. Now 101 years old from Lyons, Mary Simpson Smart was among the speakers in Seneca Falls this summer commemorating the centennial of women’s right to vote in the state.
“My aunt was not even 2 years old when she joined her mother, my grandmother, at Seneca Falls. Earlier this year, my aunt herself, now at 101 years old, spoke at the anniversary events held this summer in Seneca Falls,” said Hawley. “My family’s personal connection to the women’s suffrage movement highlights the fact that this part of our nation’s history is still living.”
Hawley said, “Whether I am working to pass legislation that protects women and children from domestic violence or human trafficking, or provides female entrepreneurs more opportunities in business, my family’s role to help establish women’s right to vote in our state is something that stays with me. It helps remind me that by working together in Albany, we can accomplish historic achievements. I am very proud of my family’s efforts to gain women the right to vote 100 years ago, and our ongoing efforts to improve the quality of life for all New Yorkers since. I hope all citizens will join me in taking some time to think about and appreciate the role of the suffragettes and the historic significance our state played in changing the course of our nation’s history.”
To learn more about women’s suffrage in New York State or find celebratory events near you, Hawley recommends the following online resources: www.nywomenshistory.com and www.ny.gov/programs/new-york-state-womens-suffrage-commission. Additionally, you can visit the Women’s Rights National Historical Park in Seneca Falls (www.nps.gov/wori/index.htm) or view an exhibit on women’s suffrage at the New York State Museum in Albany (on display through May 13, 2018: www.nysm.nysed.gov/exhibitions/votes-for-women).
October 31, 2017 _ _
MAKE THE MOST OF THIS HALLOWEEN BY STAYING SAFE
“Halloween is one of children’s most treasured holidays, as it gives them the opportunity to bring imagination to real life and dress up as their favorite scary character or superhero and compete to see who will collect the most candy. While this is such an enjoyable time for parents and their children, it is crucial to remember to stay safe this Halloween, whether out trick-or-treating or attending a costume party with friends.
“Drivers should remember to use extra caution on Halloween, especially in the evening, and it is crucial for trick-or-treaters to obey all traffic laws like crossing the street only at crosswalks, walking on the sidewalk if possible and carrying a flashlight or some other luminary device to remain visible after the sun goes down. Children should never eat candy that has been opened or given to them unwrapped and plan to trick-or-treat with a parent or group of other children.
“Halloween isn’t just for children, as many adults and parents attend costume parties and festive get-togethers. Please be responsible and use public transportation or ride-sharing services if you are going to be drinking.
“Have a safe, fun and memorable Halloween, and remember to not eat too much candy!”
HAWLEY TO HOST GENESEE COUNTY TOWN HALL MEETINGS NOV. 4
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) is pleased he will be holding several open town hall meetings this Saturday at varying locations around Genesee County. All residents are welcome to attend to discuss local issues and to express any questions or concerns they might have.
“I always look forward to these town hall meetings as a way to provide access and transparency about what is going on in Albany and as a vehicle for my office to assist residents with local matters,” Hawley said. “Gathering questions and concerns about the needs and desires of the residents I represent is central to being an effective lawmaker, and I encourage all those who are free to attend one of these town hall meetings.”
TOWN HALL MEETING SCHEDULE
Town of Bethany Meeting
9:30am-10:15am
Bethany Town Hall
10510 Bethany Center Road
Bethany, NY
Town of Pavilion Meeting
10:30am-11:15am
Pavilion Town Hall
1 Woodrow Drive
Pavilion, NY
Village of LeRoy/Town of LeRoy Meeting
11:30am-12:15pm
LeRoy Town Hall
48 Main Street, LeRoy, NY
Village of Bergen/Town of Bergen Meeting
12:45pm-1:30pm
Bergen Town Hall
10 Hunter Street
Bergen, NY
October 27, 2017 _ _
HAWLEY VISITS NYC FOR STATEN ISLAND TOUR WITH ASSEMBLYMAN MICHAEL CUSICK
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) [left of sign] poses with Assemblyman Michael Cusick (D-Staten Island) [right of sign] at Decker Farms in Staten Island.
In an effort to curb the waning bipartisanship in today’s political climate, Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) has completed a tour of a portion of Staten Island represented by Assemblyman Michael Cusick (D-Staten Island), which included stops at agricultural sites, a local New York City Police Department precinct, the site of a large-scale future shopping outlet and a famous pizza shop. The tour came full circle as Cusick visited Hawley’s district this past summer.
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) and Assemblyman Michael Cusick (D-Staten Island) visit a local NYPD precinct on Staten Island and pose with local law enforcement members.
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) [left], Assemblyman Matt Titone (D-Staten Island)[center], and Assemblyman Michael Cusick (D-Staten Island) [right] grab lunch at Joe & Pat’s Pizza on Staten Island, a local staple.
“I was very pleased to tour a vastly different part of our state that I rarely visit,” Hawley said. “It is paramount as lawmakers to build a resume of experiences and perspective not only in your own hometown and district but also in other regions where the culture, desires and needs of residents may be in contrast to your own. At the end of the day, our common goal as Assembly members is to make our state the best it can be and a place our families can be proud to call home. I met some extraordinary people during the course of this tour and thank Assemblyman Cusick for his hospitality.”
The group tours the former Fishkill Landfill
A model of the New York Wheel which will become part of the Empire Outlets shopping complex on Staten Island
Hawley is also set to tour part of Long Island represented by Assemblyman Michael Fitzpatrick (R,C,I-Smithtown) this week.
October 26, 2017 _ _
HAWLEY THRILLED WITH LEGISLATION
EXTENDING VETERAN PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTIONS
Today, Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) praised the signing of legislation to extend property tax exemptions to eligible U.S. veterans to include school taxes. These exemptions would extend the veterans’ property tax exemption to include school taxes in New York State and will ease financial burdens faced by veterans as they transition back to civilian life.
“As Americans, we owe it all to the brave men and women who fought to defend our country,” said Hawley. “Extending tax exemptions to veterans is one small way we can positively impact their post-military lives. I applaud the signing of this legislation and I hope veterans across the state will benefit from these additional tax exemptions.
At this time, state property tax laws provide partial property tax exemptions to qualified veterans of the U.S. Military, but these exemptions didn’t include school taxes. In 2013 and 2016 the alternative veterans’ property tax exemption and Cold War property tax exemptions were revised to give school districts the option of allowing exemptions. With this signed legislation, all three veterans’ property tax exemptions would apply to school taxes.
October 25, 2017 _ _
COUNTRY MEETS BIG CITY AS HAWLEY TOURS STATEN ISLAND, LONG ISLAND
In a show of bipartisanship and in response to several downstate legislators touring his district this past summer, Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) is leaving Wednesday night to tour Staten Island with Democratic state lawmaker Michael Cusick (D-Staten Island) and Long Island with Republican lawmaker Michael Fitzpatrick (R-Smithtown).
“Cooperation and benevolence between our political parties is so rare in today’s political climate, and that is why I am eager to tour some areas of the state with an open mind and focus on improving our state for all residents, because at the end of the day, we are all New Yorkers and our goal is to leave our children a better state than we found it,” Hawley said. “I thoroughly enjoyed having my downstate colleagues visit my district and I think they gained some added perspective and insight, my goal is to accomplish the same this week.”
The group will visit Freshkills Park, one of the largest park developments in New York City, Decker Farms, Joe & Pat’s Pizza and Empire Outlets, a proposed shopping park in Staten Island featuring over 100 stores.
The group will also tour the district represented by Assemblyman Michael Fitzpatrick (R,C,I-Smithtown), including a tour of various types of agriculture on Long Island hosted by Rob Carpenter, President of the Long Island Farm Bureau. Carpenter will accompany them to the Green Harbor Craft Brewery and Sparkling Pointe Vineyard and Winery. They will visit the North Fork Potato Chip Factory as well.
October 13, 2017 _ _
HAWLEY WRITES GOV. & DOT COMMISSIONER IN LIGHT OF DANGEROUS BRIDGE CONDITIONS IN WESTERN NY
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) today wrote to Gov. Cuomo and New York State Department of Transportation (DOT) Commissioner Matthew Driscoll asking for increased funding to repair and secure dozens of local bridges that have been deemed structurally deficient by a recent report from State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli’s office.
“Securing infrastructure funding at the local level is like pulling teeth every year in Albany,” Hawley said. “Just because we are a more rural community compared to New York City doesn’t mean our local roads, bridges and highways take any less punishment. If anything, our bridges wear down more easily because many more residents drive and our agriculture and small business vehicles are constantly shipping more goods across the state.
Statewide estimates to make all the necessary repairs are $27 billion, with 23 percent of Genesee County bridges and 16.2 percent of Orleans County bridges categorized as structurally deficient.
“This is about giving peace of mind to our bus drivers as they bring our children to school, our parents making the morning commute to put food on the table and our small-business owners working hard to transport their goods to market,” Hawley said. “Government’s top priority should be the safety of its residents, and that starts with roads and bridges in which we have confidence, allowing residents and tourists to travel safely. Securing funding to make this a reality is a must, and I will fight in the coming weeks and months to make that happen.”
October 5, 2017 _ _
HAWLEY ENCOURAGES NEW YORKERS TO WEAR PINK IN HONOR OF BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) is encouraging New Yorkers across the state to wear pink this month in support of October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Although the risk of dying from breast cancer has dropped significantly during the last three decades, it is still the second-highest cause of cancer death in women, an estimated 40,000 women and nearly 500 men will die from the disease this year. The Trump Administration recently displayed its support by lighting the White House pink on Sunday evening.
“Almost everyone has a family member, friend or knows someone who has been affected by breast cancer, and the goal of this campaign is to completely change that reality,” Hawley said. “Support for the movement has been growing tremendously in recent years with elected officials, celebrities and sports figures doing their part to raise awareness and ultimately save lives. I hope all of my constituents and New Yorkers across the state wear pink at least one day this month to foster awareness and support those affected with breast cancer. Thank you and God bless you.”
For more information, please visit http://pressroom.cancer.org/2017-09-28-October-is-Breast-Cancer-Awareness-Month-What-You-Need-to-Know-and-How-You-Can-Help.
September 29, 2017 _ _
HAWLEY DECRIES ‘GANG RECRUITMENT BILL’, ASKS GOV. TO COVER ADDED COSTS
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) today voiced his continuing opposition to a policy pushed by downstate special interests during this past budget cycle which raises the age of criminal responsibility from 16 to 18 in some circumstances. The law, which many have coined the ‘gang recruitment bill’ establishes a youth classification in a superior court in each county that has jurisdiction over Juvenile Offenders and a new class of Adolescent Offenders.
“This is one of the most misguided and frankly dangerous pieces of legislation that has ever hit my desk as a state legislator,” Hawley said. “As I said at the time it was being considered, contentious policy like this should never be used as political leverage in a state budget and this was a cowardly attempt by downstate liberals to handcuff many legislators into voting for this as it was lumped in with various other spending items in one massive bill.”
With the new law, certain criminal cases can be sent to Family Court even if the charges are 2nd degree murder, 1st degree rape, 1st degree criminal sexual act or an armed felony. The governor is using this as another mechanism to force counties to adhere to his reckless spending practices. If a county stays under the tax cap, there is no cost to them but if they exceed it they may not be reimbursed by the state.
“Allowing murderers, rapists and armed robbers to avoid harsher sentencing by sending them to family court is unconscionable,” Hawley said. “In doing so, we run the risk of these violent offenders returning to our neighborhoods more quickly and that should scare everyone. Only in liberal dominated New York do New York City politicians think a sixteen or seventeen year old doesn’t know that murder or armed robbery is wrong and shouldn’t be responsible for his or her actions. I was proud to vote against this bill and am requesting Gov. Cuomo use state funds to reimburse counties for the added court and administrative costs that our local governments simply can’t afford.”
September 13, 2017 _ _
HAWLEY PARTNERS WITH RED CROSS TO HELP THOSE AFFECTED BY HURRICANES HARVEY, IRMA
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) is asking fellow New Yorkers who are willing and able to consider making a donation or volunteering with the American Red Cross in its efforts to help victims and their families of Hurricanes Harvey and Irma recover. Large portions of Texas and Southern Florida have been devastated by these two recent natural disasters, leaving thousands homeless and much of the states’ infrastructure in ruins.
“What has happened in Texas and Florida as a result of these hurricanes is nothing short of tragic,” Hawley said. “It is at times like these that we must truly band together as Americans and help our friends in the south, because that’s what New Yorkers do. Our friends at the American Red Cross do tremendous work in crises like these, and I can attest to their effectiveness because I partnered with them in 2005 to deliver two truckloads of supplies after Hurricane Katrina. I encourage all Western New Yorkers who are able to make a small donation to the Red Cross and help inject some hope back into these struggling communities.”
Those looking to donate can use one of the following options:
Mail a check to your local Red Cross chapter:
- Western New York Chapter (Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie, Genesee, Niagara, Orleans and Wyoming.)
786 Delaware Avenue
Buffalo, NY 14209
- Greater Rochester Chapter (Livingston, Monroe and Ontario.)
50 Prince Street
Rochester, NY 14701
- Visit redcross.org
- Call 1-800 RED CROSS or text the word IRMA to 90999 to make a $10 donation.
- Call your local Red Cross chapter. The Western New York chapter phone number is (716) 886-7500. The Greater Rochester chapter phone number is (585) 241-4400.
The Red Cross honors donor intent. Donors can designate their donation to Hurricane Harvey or Irma relief efforts by choosing that option when donating on redcross.org, or by designating it on the memo line of their check.
