CORWIN OUTLINES 2012 LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES

A Column from Assemblywoman Jane Corwin (R,C,I – Clarence)

In the governor’s second State of the State address, he outlined many of the major accomplishments of 2011 and set forth yet another ambitious plan for the new year. The highlights include an additional $1 billion in economic development funding he promised for Buffalo and his pledge to tackle pension reform and creation of a Tier VI state retirement level. I was also happy to hear that the governor is as concerned as I am about enactment of substantial mandate relief. This is necessary, and it needs to happen now.

I applaud the governor for his initiative and investment in the City of Buffalo, and I share his enthusiasm for the economic development of our region that will bring jobs back to Western New York. I plan to work closely with the Western New York delegation to make certain that the investment in our region is not derailed or hindered by government red tape and this initiative is fully maximized to create private sector jobs and bring new private sector businesses to Western New York.

I also share the governor’s commitment to lifting burdensome mandates on our school districts and localities, and I am determined to accomplish real mandate relief this year that will allow our local governments to be more efficient and ultimately lift the weight that is currently on taxpayers. I will fight to see that real mandate relief is passed this legislative session, as mandate relief is one of my top priorities.

In addition to these highlights of the governor’s speech, I was also pleased that the governor has continued to look at the Legislature as a partner in achieving these goals. As I look forward to continuing my work with the governor, both directly as a legislator and through the Spending and Government Efficiency Commission, I am also eager to work with him and the other legislative leaders in my newest role: as a member of the Assembly Ways and Means Committee.

This committee oversees the state budget process, as well as any legislation regarding fiscal issues including taxes and fees. As the voice for a fiscally conservative Western New York, I am very honored to have been appointed to serve on this all-important committee, and I will certainly do my best to ensure the views of Western New York are heard during the budget process. I also look forward to continuing my work as an advocate for a business friendly New York in my role as ranking member on the Assembly Corporations Committee.

There is a significant amount of work to be done to further strengthen the economy across our state as well as regionally and locally. Reforming the reach and expense of state government is an important factor in allowing New York’s private sector employers to create jobs and enabling citizens to live the American dream. I look forward to continuing my efforts to create jobs, reform Albany and ensure that Western New York has a strong and clear voice in the Assembly Chamber.

I welcome your continued input and invite residents of the 142nd Assembly District to join the conversation on Facebook or email me at corwinj@assembly.state.ny.us. For additional information or assistance with any state issues, please contact my district office at 8180 Main St., Clarence, NY 14221 or call 839-4691.

Assemblywoman 142nd District

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