New and veteran members of the New York state Legislature weighed in on Gov. Kathy Hochul’s State of the State address. Each one touching on escalating costs and expenses that are not being controlled.

State Sen. George Borrello, R-Sunset Bay, a number of her proposals raise more questions than answers. “It’s encouraging to see some focus on affordability, but these proposals fall flat without addressing rising costs in other areas. Middle-class tax cuts, inflation refund checks, and an expanded Child Tax Credit may sound promising, but they will mean little to families already burdened by skyrocketing expenses,” he said in a statement. “The Climate Act mandates could cost New York taxpayers hundreds of billions of dollars and raise utility bills by as much as 64 percent. Small businesses in New York are being crushed by costly regulations which are ultimately passed onto consumers. Without tackling these significant cost drivers, these proposals risk being little more than temporary fixes that fail to deliver meaningful relief for New Yorkers.”

State Assemblyman Andrew Molitor, R-Westfield, echoed those sentiments. “When will New York’s leaders lower the costs they impose upon us? Today’s State of the State address sounded like business as usual: spend, spend and then spend some more.

“With an economic plan that anticipates increasing the largest state budget in our nation, we can expect costs will continue to rise even though the cost of living currently remains unbearable,” Molitor said. “By failing to cut state spending, cut unfunded mandates on our local municipalities and having a real plan to bring high-quality jobs to New York, the future of our families is being compromised.”

Also agreeing was Assemblyman Joe Sempolinski, whose district includes Gowanda. “What’s confusing is the Governor recognized that New Yorkers are struggling with high costs, while she continues to roll out policies that are guaranteed to increase government spending,” Sempolinski said.

“It’s time for some positive change. The solutions are simple: reduce the tax burden on New Yorkers, cut government spending and improve public safety by prioritizing the needs of law-abiding citizens over the needs of law-breaking criminals. All of these goals are within the power of the governor.”

Touching on local hot-button issues, Borrello said bail reform and the Seneca Nation have not been addressed. “Even worse was the lack of any proposal to fix dangerous bail reform laws. The governor didn’t propose repealing them or adding a dangerousness standard, which 49 other states use to keep violent offenders off the streets,” he said. “Every day, more New Yorkers are hurt or killed because of this reckless law.”

Additionally, “there was no mention of a new gaming compact with the Seneca Nation. This issue has been unresolved for over a year. The Seneca Nation is a vital partner in Western New York, and it’s frustrating that the state hasn’t negotiated in good faith. The Nation has been ready to work collaboratively but has faced unnecessary delays from the state.

“An area on which I agree with the governor is mental health. Expanding criteria for involuntary commitment and strengthening Kendra’s Law are steps I’ve supported through legislation since 2022. These changes could save lives and make communities safer. However, it will take real political courage to push these proposals past the radical advocates and their legislative allies who are staunchly opposed to such changes.”