April 30, 2018
HAWLEY TO HOST ‘THINK DIFFERENTLY’ FORUM WITH DUTCHESS CO. EXECUTIVE MARC MOLINARO
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) will be hosting a special roundtable discussion with Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro, called ‘ThinkDIFFERENTLY.’ The discussion offers different perspectives on how our businesses, organizations and individuals can better treat our residents with special needs.
Dutchess County Executive Marcus J. Molinaro said, “I thank Assemblyman Hawley for embracing the ‘ThinkDIFFERENTLY’ initiative we’ve found so successful in Dutchess County, and I hope communities throughout his district will continue to answer our call to action. Each New Yorker deserves to treated based upon their own unique abilities and potential, and we in Dutchess County seek to embrace all residents of all abilities. I thank the communities that have chosen to ‘ThinkDIFFERENTLY,’ and I look forward to seeing the trend continue throughout our state.”
The event will take place at the ARC of Genesee Orleans located at 64 Walnut St. in Batavia beginning at 2 p.m. on May 3. Residents who wish to attend are asked to please call Hawley’s district office ahead of time to register at (585) 589-5780.
“I am pleased to host this important roundtable discussion with County Executive Marc Molinaro, and I look forward to bringing in community stakeholders to talk about ways to foster a more inclusive and welcoming environment for our residents with special needs,” Hawley said. “I am hopeful we can implement many of the ideas and solutions that are part of this program, and I am eager to have a productive discussion.”
WHO: Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia)
Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro
WHAT: ‘Think Differently’ Roundtable
WHEN: Thursday, May 3
2 p.m.
WHERE: ARC of Genesee Orleans
64 Walnut St., Batavia, NY
HAWLEY: ‘CUOMO USING POSITION TO TURN PRIVATE BUSINESSES AGAINST LAW-ABIDING GUN OWNERS’
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) today criticized Gov. Cuomo’s attempt to use his official position to turn private insurance companies, banks and other financial institutions against the National Rifle Association (NRA). Last week, the governor directed the Department of Financial Services to urge certain financial institutions to examine and possibly cease their relationship with the NRA. This follows the governor’s attacks on congressional Republicans and national support for the Second Amendment advocacy group.
“The governor’s alienation of law-abiding citizens continues as now he is using his office to leverage private businesses against the NRA and its members,” Hawley said. “It’s an absolute overreach and clear abuse of power when the governor sidesteps the public by unilaterally using his office to attack groups and their members who have done wrong except believe in liberty and constitutional rights. One million New Yorkers and prominent businesses have fled the state since Gov. Cuomo took office and sadly he seems content with that reality.”
HAWLEY FIGHTING BIG GOV’T WASTE AS NY AGAIN RANKS HIGHEST FOR NUMBER OF BILLS INTRODUCED IN STATE LEGISLATURES
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) announced today that New York has once again topped the list for the number of bills introduced into state legislatures nationwide in 2017, despite only 3.1 percent of all legislation being signed into law.
“The amount of useless legislation introduced into our Legislature each year is mind-boggling. These items surely clog the legislative process, preventing us from tackling real issues important to our citizens,” Hawley said. “Some of these bills, such as budget bills, are still printed despite the Assembly going ‘paperless’ a few years ago, which raises a serious environmental concern.
A total of 16,691 bills were introduced into the New York State Legislature in 2017, which dwarfs other states in comparison. Ranked second and third were New Jersey (7,165) and Indiana (1,831), respectively.
“While many legislators simply take credit for introducing bills which they know will eventually die, my focus will remain the real issues: reigning in government spending and waste, tax relief and crucial infrastructure repair of roads, bridges and highways,” Hawley concluded.
April 20, 2018
HAWLEY OUTRAGED AT CUOMO’S POLITICAL MANEUVER TO PARDON FELONS
A Statement from Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) on Gov. Cuomo’s Executive Order granting paroled felons voting rights
“The governor is so desperate to appeal to the radical left as his election approaches that he has now granted conditional pardons to roughly 35,000 convicts on parole, a shameful move that flies in the face of every law-abiding citizen who has done the right thing and followed the law.
“Despite the governor’s radical interpretation, paying your debt to society and earning back the ability to exercise our most cherished right, voting, should not be granted until a felon is completely off parole and has been rehabilitated.
“It is obvious Gov. Cuomo will go to great lengths to win an election but I never thought it would involve pandering to rapists, murderers and arsonists. This governor seems to be fonder of helping inmates and convicted felons instead of hardworking, law-abiding citizens.”
HAWLEY ANNOUNCES NEW FLEXIBILITY IN FUNDING FOR LAKE ONTARIO RELIEF
As part of this year’s budget passed on March 31, Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) announced today that new regulations have been put in place to increase flexibility in Lake Ontario’s relief program.
“Residents and businesses across Lake Ontario’s shoreline are still struggling to recover after Lake Ontario’s historic flooding last year, and I am proud to announce that we fought diligently in this year’s budget to free up funding to allow the recovery process to continue,” Hawley said. “A total of $12.5 million will be sent to homeowners in Cayuga, Monroe and Wayne counties and $4 million has been allocated to homeowners in Orleans County for flood recovery efforts.”
Hawley was one of the first state officials to tour the flooding along Lake Ontario’s shoreline firsthand and was instrumental in fighting for a state relief package as part of last year’s end of session agreement.
“I will continue to fight for more funding and financial flexibility throughout the duration of session to see that all affected residents receive the aid they so desperately deserve,” Hawley continued. “Please feel free to contact my office for more information or questions on this program, and know that I am with you every step of the way,”
NEW YORK CITY INTERESTS KILL ETHICS REFORM PACKAGE
A Statement from Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia)
“As the retrial of corrupt former Speaker Sheldon Silver hangs over the state, it is shocking that New York City politicians would consciously vote to block the most comprehensive ethics reform package in state history – the Public Officers Accountability Act.
“It is a grave disservice to taxpayers that Assembly leadership continues to vote down and bury legislation that may have prevented corrupt thieves like Sheldon Silver and Dean Skelos from committing crimes.
“What we need is an end to Gov. Cuomo’s bid-rigging culture, term limits for legislative leaders, stronger income disclosure requirements and an end to lawmakers using campaign contributions as a golden parachute. Taxpayers deserve a more honest and faithful government.”
Hawley Announces RePaving of
Lake Ontario State Parkway Section
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) delivered roughly 2,000 signatures to Gov. Andrew Cuomo to demanding the repaving of Lake Ontario State Parkway between Kendall and Hamlin. It will be announced by the Department of Transportation (DOT) that $5.2 million worth of road repairs will begin soon. Hawley calls it an investment to improve safety and the accessibility of this important roadway.
“I am thrilled to announce that Lake Ontario State Parkway will be repaired by the Department of Transportation, and it’s due to the wonderful people in my district who helped send a message that we need safe roads in our community,” said Hawley. “We sent thousands of signatures to the governor to get this accomplished. I am looking forward to a safer road in the near future.”
The rough roadway caused significant issues with traffic and its continued maintenance is important to further support local tourism. Residents and Hawley called for these repairs in March 2016 and the DOT is expected to make an announcement on Monday.
April 4, 2018
New York State 2018/2019 Budget
Although the budget process was rife with secrecy and failed to include much-needed ethics reform, we did secure funding for many programs crucial to Western New York.
I am pleased we were able to restore Gov. Cuomo’s proposed cuts to Library Aid – providing millions in additional funding. We secured hundreds of millions in CHIPS to repair local infrastructure, programs to support up and coming farmers, a record amount of education aid and ensured protections for our valiant veterans.
I am concerned that we once again increased spending, failed to curb our bloated Medicaid program and must absorb tax increases handed down by New York City politicians.
Going forward with the rest of session I am confident we can work toward making New York more affordable for all and protecting upstate values from radical special interests.
Tax Code Changes
Attempts to reduce the impact of the Federal Tax Cut and Jobs Act by:
- Creating the Employer Compensation Expense Program (payroll tax), an optional 5 percent tax on payroll expenses in excess of $40,000 per employee
- Creating a new tax credit for taxpayers that donate/contribute to specific State and local funds (taxpayers who itemize deductions can lower their tax liability by claiming these contributions as deductions on their federal and State tax returns)
- Decoupling the New York State tax code from federal tax code changes made in the Federal Tax Cut and Jobs Act
Women’s Agenda
Passed multiple parts of the Governor’s Women’s Agenda, including:
- Comprehensive workplace sexual harassment prevention provisions that apply to all employers (regardless of size) in New York State
- Free feminine hygiene products in public schools
- Private lactation rooms in public buildings
- Diaper Changing Stations for use by men and women in public buildings
- Adult changing stations in public buildings
- New Computer Science Education Standards
- State Board of Medicine Membership to specifically include a physician with knowledge of women’s health
- Prohibit victims of sexual assault from being billed or subject to deductibles or co-pays for forensic examinations
- Require forensic rape kits to be stored for 20 years in a separate and secure location
HITS
- $26.03 billion in total School Aid, a $859 million increase or 3.4%
- Foundation Aid increased by $618 million, for a total of $17.8 billion
- Removes contingency language granting the Director of the Division of the Budget the authority to make across-the-board reductions to local assistance programs if tax receipts fail to meet estimates
- Increases Community College Base Aid to $2,847 per student, a $100 increase
- Restores “Bundy Aid” for private not-for-profit colleges and universities to last year’s level of $35.1 million
- $65 million in Extreme Winter Recovery funds to be disbursed through the Consolidated Local Street and Highway Improvement Program (CHIPS) formula
- $96.6 million for Library Aid; $1 million more than last year
- Extends the “Hire-A-Vet” tax credit for two years
MISSES
- NO transparency, as every budget bill was passed with a Message of Necessity, bypassing the required three-day aging process
- NO broad-based mandate relief for our localities or school districts
- NO broad-based ethics reforms
- NO real reforms to lower property taxes
- NO base increase in the CHIPS
- NO increase in oversight related to economic development
- NO Aid and Incentives for Municipalities (AIM) increase
- NO tax cuts for small businesses
NOTEWORTHY ITEMS
- Includes a State Pay Commission to examine salary levels for the State Legislature and certain executive and authority employees
- $250 million in new funding for improvements at New York City Housing Authority residences
- $413 million ($174 million in State funding) “Subway Action Plan” for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA)
- Congestion surcharge of $2.75 on for-hire trips, $2.50 on yellow taxi rides, and $0.75 on pooled trips south of 96th Street in Manhattan
- $300 million for the Environmental Protection Fund (EPF)
- Implements the “No Student Goes Hungry Initiative” to prohibit meal shaming, require certain “Breakfast After the Bell” programs, and provide subsidies for locally grown food at schools
- Prohibits State agencies from denying professional licenses to student loan debtors
- Establishes the “Secure Choice Savings Program,” an optional State-administered retirement savings program for private sector employees
- Extends the county-wide shared services panels until December 31, 2021
- $225 million in new funding for matched savings reimbursement to local governments that submitted a shared services plan
- Enhances the Brownfield Opportunity Area Program by expanding the pool of eligible applicants
- Allows for flexibility among the three flood recovery grants available for the Lake Ontario-St. Lawrence Seaway Flood Recovery Program
- Includes over $132 million for Direct Care Workers in 2018-19
- Contains $44.5 million for marketing initiatives that may be used to support START-UP NY advertising
- Extends eligibility for Enhanced Tuition Awards (ETAs) to private, for-profit, higher education institutions
- $1.1 billion for the Tuition Assistance Program (TAP). This includes $118.4 million for Excelsior Scholarships and $22.9 million for ETAs
- Includes the “Opioid Stewardship Act,” which places a surcharge on opioid manufacturers and distributors
- $150 million for an eighth round of Regional Economic Development Councils (REDCs)
- Maintains funding for the Consolidated Local Street and Highway Improvement Program (CHIPS) at last year’s level ($438.1 million)
- $100 million for BRIDGE NY and $100 million for PAVE NY to fund local bridge and road projects
- $475 million in new funding for the State and Municipal Facilities (SAM) Program
- $186.4 million for nonpublic schools; $5.4 million more than last year
- $105.4 million for Blind and Deaf (4201) Private Schools
- Limits public sector union’s scope of representation of non-members to collective bargaining
- Increases by one the number of State Supreme Court Justices in each of the 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th, and 13th Judicial Districts (Dutchess County and south)
- Enacts the Democracy Protection Act to require reporting of paid internet digital ads by political committees to the Board of Elections
- Removes firearms, rifles, and shotguns from persons convicted of certain offenses
March 28, 2018
A FEW WORDS FROM ASSEMBLYMAN HAWLEY
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qPrGE90QJn8
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-NLYJ_twl0Y
March 27, 2018
HAWLEY CONGRATULATES VILLAGE OF HOLLEY ON BEING NAMED A ‘FINGER LAKES FORWARD’ PROJECT
As part of the ‘Finger Lakes Forward’ initiative, Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) announced today that the Village of Holley was awarded $1,000,000 for the restoration and conversion of the former Holley High School at 1 Wright Street into Holley Gardens, a mixed-used facility geared toward senior living and accessible office space for the community.
“Public investment in our small towns is inspiring and necessary to turn dilapidated and neglected areas into robust centers of community and commerce,” Hawley said. “I am pleased to hear that the old Holley High School will become a welcoming living community for our seniors, and I look forward to watching this project transform and progress as we move forward.”
March 14, 2018
HAWLEY ISSUES STATEMENT ON ONE-HOUSE BUDGET RESOLUTION
A Statement from Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) on Assembly Democrat’s One-House Budget Resolution
“While today’s budget resolution was sprinkled with sound proposals, like a restoration of library aid and more flexibility in our Lake Ontario relief program, I am concerned by billions of dollars in new taxes and spending.
“At a time when residents are leaving the state in droves and retiring elsewhere, we should be working to cut taxes and foster real business growth, not freezing property tax credits and sending our families’ money to fund more downstate programs.
“Rest assured, I will be fighting for law-abiding, middle-class taxpayers as budget talks heat up, not illegal aliens and New York City handouts.”
HAWLEY, COLLEAGUES HOLD PRESS CONFERENCE TO ANNOUNCE MEDICAID REFORM
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) [left] joins members of the Assembly Republican Conference to unveil a plan requiring a ten year state takeover of Medicaid costs
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) joined his Republican colleagues today in Albany to announce a groundbreaking plan that would pave the way for significant local tax reductions for upstate residents. The plan would entail New York State taking over the county share of Medicaid expenses over a 10-year period.
“These cradle-to-grave welfare programs are bleeding our state dry,” Hawley said. “Many state leaders do not realize that a large portion of these state-imposed costs are mandated expenses on counties which are then passed down to residents in the form of higher property and local taxes. The bottom line is that Albany should pay for what Albany spends instead of passing the buck down to local governments.”
New York’s Medicaid budget is about $70 billion, more than one-third of the entire state budget. In federal fiscal year 2016, New York spent more on Medicaid than Texas and Florida combined, despite the fact that the combined populations of these states was approximately 46.1 million to New York's 19.7 million.
HAWLEY PENS LETTER TO ASSEMBLY LEADERSHIP REQUESTING FUNDING FOR SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICERS IN STATE BUDGET
In response to the recent school shooting in Parkland, Florida on Valentine’s Day, Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) has written a letter to Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie (D-Bronx) requesting an additional $50,000 be included in this year’s state budget for every school in the state to hire armed school resource officers.
“I hereby request that you provide an additional $50,000 a year toward the cost per armed school resource officer for every New York State school in this year’s budget,” Hawley wrote.
Hawley is also requesting that the salary cap for retired police officer serving as school resource officers be raised from $30,000 to $50,000 per year. This is in addition to his proposal to recruit veterans and retired law enforcement to bolster security at schools.
“A mother in my district actually purchased a bullet proof vest for her 16-year-old son subsequent to a shooter threat in his high school. How incredibly heartbreaking it has come to this!” said Hawley in the letter ”I vehemently urge that you seriously consider these measures and any other that you feel will create an environment that is safe and secure for our most cherished and vulnerable constituents, our children.”
HAWLEY REACTS TO PERCOCO VERDICT
A Statement from Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) on the guilty verdict of former Cuomo aide Joe Percoco
“Today’s guilty verdict of Joe Percoco, someone the governor once called a ‘brother,’ shows that corruption and private influence has permeated even the most prominent in our government.
“True leaders take responsibility when their house is engulfed in turmoil, and yet the governor remains weak and vague on ethics reform.
“We have a perfect opportunity to start changing the culture here by passing meaningful ethics reform. However, Assembly leadership would rather pass nonsensical, worthless, one-house measures codifying abortion. Shameful.”
March 6, 2018
HAWLEY HERALDS LOCAL LIBRARIES IN ALBANY
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) poses with Carl Gouveia, Director of the Seymour Public Library, and his family in the Assembly Chamber
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) met with several representatives of prominent local libraries who visited the Assembly Chamber in Albany recently. Hawley thanked them for their community support and work to sustain such great educational resources, and for sponsoring many public programs in Western New York.
Hawley poses with representatives from the Monroe County Library system in his Albany Office
“Libraries are such an integral party of communities across New York State, and it is saddening to hear that some state leaders propose to cut library aid in our budget,” Hawley said. “Many times, these dedicated men and women volunteer long hours to see that that our local students and children have access to books, research materials, broadband internet and helpful community programs. That is why I spearheaded a letter with nearly 40 lawmakers from both sides of the aisle asking Assembly Speaker Heastie to restore full library aid in this year’s budget.”
HAWLEY STANDS AGAINST BILL TO TAKE MEDICAL LEAVE AWAY FROM VETERANS
A photo depicting the current bill up for debate and vote that hangs on either side of the Assembly Chamber in Albany.
This week in Albany, Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) voted against legislation that would reduce the number of days veterans would be able to take for medical leave related to their combat duties. Gov. Cuomo signed the bill last year allowing eight days of leave in exchange for Assembly Democrats amending the law to reduce the number of days to five this year.
“These are the kinds of political games Albany politicians and the governor play with people’s livelihood,” Hawley said. “While Assembly leadership had a chance to stand strong for our veterans against the governor’s desires to cut paid leave, they capitulated per their pre-arranged backroom deal.”
The bill was introduced by Westchester County Democrat Amy Paulin, and would reduce the amount of medical leave days provided from eight down to five.
“This was a shameful day in Albany as downstate politicians introduced a bill that reduced the number of medical leave days our veterans can take to receive treatment related to their combat duties,” Hawley said. “We should be doing everything in our power to protect and care for our servicemen and servicewomen at home and abroad, and this is a terrible display of gratitude. I voted no on this bill and will continue to stand up for our armed forces to see they receive the time for treatment they greatly deserve.”
Hawley, a veteran of the Ohio Army National Guard and U.S. Army Reserves, is a staunch proponent of protecting our state’s veterans and serves on the Assembly’s Veterans’ Affairs Committee. Hawley hosts the Patriot Trip each year, traveling to Washington D.C. with local veterans and their families to visit our nation’s sites and memorials.
February 27, 2018
WAYS TO ACCESS STATE TAX FORMS
As the deadline to file federal and state taxes approaches on April 17, Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) is helping resident navigate the often cumbersome state tax filing system by providing ways to access forms and instructions.
“There are many citizens who choose to file federal and state taxes themselves instead of going to a tax preparer or using an online program,” Hawley said. “Unfortunately, the tax rules, regulations and method by which we are required to file are often confusing and complicated. The state should be consistently assisting residents with tax preparation and working on ways to clarify this burden. Residents can pick up tax forms at my district office by emailing or calling ahead of time.”
To access IT-201 Tax Forms and Instructions:
- Use this link to access and print IT-201 instructions online
- Use this link to access and print IT-201 tax forms online
- Visit www.tax.ny.gov for more information
- Call your local library. (Many libraries have access to current tax forms available to residents)
*Residents are encouraged to pick up tax forms at Hawley’s district office by emailing [email protected] or calling (585) 589-5780 ahead of time.
**A refund will usually be issued more quickly if residents fill out forms online and submit electronically.
February 13, 2018
HAWLEY PROPOSES SAFEGUARD AGAINST HASTE PASSAGE OF CONTROVERSIAL LEGISLATION
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) rises to introduce a reform on Messages of Necessity in the Assembly Chamber
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.
“Too often, controversial measures are rushed through the legislative process in the middle of the night without adhering to the constitutionally-mandated, three-day ‘aging’ process,” Hawley said. “This is the people’s government and they have a right to know what bills are being passed with a high level of transparency.”
Legislation is usually subject to an “aging” period of three days before it can be voted on. However, 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 rob the public of the right to know what’s in a bill as was the case when the unconstitutional SAFE Act was rammed through the Legislature leaving many lawmakers no time to actually read the legislation that was to be voted upon,” Hawley continued. “I am disappointed that this and over a dozen other common-sense ethics reforms were voted down by New York City Democrats. Our citizens deserve better.”
February 12, 2018
HAWLEY TO HOST OPEN COMMUNITY FORUM IN PAVILION
Provides public an opportunity to meet their state representative and ask questions about state government
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) announced today that he will be hosting a free community forum open to the public on Thursday, February 15 at 7 p.m. at the Hollwedel Memorial Library located at 5 Woodrow Dr. in Pavilion. Hawley will provide an update on the happenings of Albany and will answer questions from the audience. The event is sponsored by the Women’s Group “RAP.”
“I enjoy these open community forums as a channel of communication between the residents I represent and the inner-workings of state government,” Hawley said. “We have a responsibility as public representatives to be open and accountable, and that is what forums like these are all about. I encourage everyone who is able to attend and I look forward to seeing you there.”
Hawley is Assistant Minority Leader of the Assembly Republican Conference and currently serves on the Agriculture, Ways & Means, Rules, Insurance and Racing & Wagering committees.
WHO: Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia)
WHAT: Open Community Forum
WHERE: Hollwedel Memorial Library
5 Woodrow Dr., Pavilion
WHEN: Thursday, February 15, 7 p.m.
February 6, 2018
THE FORGOTTEN MIDDLE CLASS
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) issues a statement on the recent priorities of state leaders
“This week continues state leader’s assault on law-abiding, middle-class families. Last night was free college tuition for illegal aliens pushed by New York City liberals – a $27 million expense on the backs of taxpayers.
“Last week, Gov. Cuomo’s administration rolled out free tablets for prison inmates, - a luxury we should be working to provide for school children and libraries before convicts.
“While downstate liberal elites are fighting for convicts and illegals, I’ll be fighting even harder for the middle-class. These are the hardworking men and women we should be working to protect, not illegal aliens and criminals.”
February 2, 2018
HAWLEY CALLS FOR REMOVAL OF ‘I LOVE NY SIGNS’ AFTER HEAVY FINE LEVIED ON CUOMO PROJECT
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) has once again called for the removal of the infamous blue and white ‘I Love NY Signs’ that have been erected along the New York State Thruway and highways all over the state at a cost of $8.1 million to taxpayers.
“We know the governor’s hubris has gotten our state into trouble, but now it has cost taxpayers another $14 million in federal fines – totaling $22 million,” Hawley said. “It is unconscionable to think Gov. Cuomo knew the signs were illegal since the Obama administration, then used $8.1 million in taxpayer money and an out of state company to design and build them anyway. Furthermore, after many were destroyed by harsh winds in Western New York last year, he used more public money to rebuild and replace them.
“Many of the signs were built downstate by an Arkansas-based company with many manufactured out of state. The Cuomo administration has ignored federal warnings for years that the signs were illegal and must be taken down.
“I am calling for Gov. Cuomo to immediately take down all ‘I Love NY Signs’ and adhere to federal law before more of New York’s money is washed down the drain.”
February 1, 2018
HAWLEY SENDS LETTER TO GOV. CUOMO & DOCCS DEMANDING END TO FREE TABLET PROGRAM FOR PRISONERS
As a result of the decision by the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) to allow over 51,000 inmates statewide to use electronic tablets free of charge, Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) has written a letter to Gov. Cuomo and DOCCS demanding that the program be shut down immediately.
“This policy decision to reward and furnish luxury items like these tablets to prisoners is an affront to our law-abiding citizens,” Hawley wrote in the letter.
“We already have people moving to New York State for our lavish Medicaid programs and now criminals will also be moving here and if convicted and sent to a state prison will have access to luxuries not afforded in other out of state correctional facilities,” Hawley continued in the letter.
“I call on you to reconsider this misguided policy and urge JayP Inc. to work with our school system, libraries and veterans organizations to furnish tablets to law abiding citizens…”
HAWLEY ANNOUNCES BROWNFIELD REVITALIZATION GRANT AWARDED TO HOLLEY
As part of the state’s Brownfield Opportunity Area (BOA) grant program which seeks to revitalize 13 communities around the state, Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) announced today that the Village of Holley has been awarded a $165,600 grant for revitalization funding.
“Many times, rehabilitation and rebirth of these types of properties are hindered by contamination or environmental concerns, and this is a great opportunity to turn once dilapidated properties into proud parts of our community,” Hawley said. “I am pleased to see Holley receive this important state aid, and I look forward to witnessing its progress first hand.”
The funds will be used to transform 813 total acres containing 55 potential sites. The scope of the project includes improved housing and income opportunities for residents, formulating potential design guidelines for the public square, better utilization of the Erie Canal, reducing commercial vacancies and identifying opportunities surrounding the former high school in the downtown core.
January 31, 2018
HAWLEY HONORED AS ONE OF ASSEMBLY’S MOST CONSERVATIVE LEGISLATORS IN 2017
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) poses with his Award as one of the most conservative members of the Assembly for 2017
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) announced today that he has been honored as one of the Assembly’s most conservative legislators; being awarded a 92 percent ranking, according to the Conservative Party of New York State. The legislation considered for the award covers a wide array of topics, including: spending, pro-life issues, crime, education and big-government issues, among others.
“Public service and representation are about channeling the thoughts, ideas and desires of one’s constituency into an effective legislative platform,” Hawley said. “Frequently traveling around the district and holding weekly office hours allow me to best represent my neighbors in Albany and this award is a reflection of their feelings toward state government. I am proud and honored to accept this distinction and will continue to fervently represent residents in my district in an accurate and robust manner.”
HAWLEY ISSUES STATEMENT ON FREE TABLETS FOR INMATES
A Statement from Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) on the decision by DOCCS to allow inmates the use of free tablets while in prison
“New York state’s paradigm of pampering those who break the law or are here illegally never ceases to amaze me. The average middle-class taxpayer must scrape and save to afford a luxury such as a computer tablet, and now the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) is allowing them to be given out like candy to hardened criminals.
“If it’s this easy to encourage vendors to provide free tablets to inmates, why aren’t they being provided to our students in disadvantaged school districts or to libraries across the state as a community resource? I suppose crime does pay, especially if you live in New York.”
January 29, 2018
HAWLEY URGES RESIDENTS TO PARTICIPATE IN NATIONAL WEAR RED DAY
Show support for women’s heart health by wearing red on Friday, February 2
In support of National Wear Red Day this Friday, February 2, Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) is encouraging residents to join him in wearing red to support women’s cardiac health. Heart Disease and stroke cause one in three deaths among women each year, killing approximately one woman every 80 seconds.
“National Wear Red Day is an important event that raises awareness for cardiac health and helps encourage individuals to live a healthy lifestyle,” Hawley said. “Heart disease is a leading cause of death in the United States, but education and action are integral parts of changing that statistic. I will be wearing red on Friday, and I encourage my fellow residents to show your support and do the same.”
Total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, blood pressure, blood sugar and Body Mass Index (BMI) are important numbers to be aware of and monitor for optimal cardiac health. For more information, or to join the conversation and show your support, please visit https://www.goredforwomen.org/.
January 23, 2018
HAWLEY INTRODUCES LEGISLATIVE SOLUTIONS TO COMBAT DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
Unveils Assembly Republican report following series of statewide regional forums on preventing domestic violence
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) speaks on preventing domestic violence at a press conference in Albany Tuesday
As a result of a series of statewide regional forums hosted by members of the Assembly Republican Conference, Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) today spoke at a press conference in Albany on legislative solutions to combat domestic violence. The full report and all its recommendations have been made public. The full report, A Safe Haven: Helping Abuse Victims and Enhancing Protections, can be found here.
“Domestic violence is a grave issue that has irrevocable consequences for families and society as a whole,” Hawley said. “I had the opportunity to host one of our conference’s forums in Batavia, and the testimony and information we received was both concerning and valuable. This is a complex issue, but after talking with law enforcement, advocates, victims and those on the frontlines around the state, I believe these recommendations will go very far in preventing domestic violence and helping victims feel safe again.”
Some of the recommendations outlined in the report include:
- Providing financial assistance and relief to victims seeking alternative housing or living in a shelter to escape their abuse;
- Declaring domestic violence a statewide public health crisis;
- Creation of a new “Domestic Violence in the Presence of a Child” crime with harsher penalties for abusers;
- Allowing domestic violence victims to obtain emergency panic buttons through local law enforcement or social services; and
- Freeing up law enforcement to arrest more abusers and keep victims safe.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mNuR9gk5IFg&feature=youtu.be
January 22, 2018
HAWLEY ANNOUNCES $5.5 MILLION AVAILABLE IN NEW GRANTS FOR FARMERS
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) today announced $5.5 million is now available to farmers and agricultural producers as part of two new grant programs. The awards are aimed toward farmland conservation, assisting farmers in identifying available land and ensuring that arable land is permanently protected from development and non-farm uses.
“Farming is one of the cornerstones of our community and extremely important to our local economy, traditions and way of life,” Hawley said. “Too often, farmers lose the ability to work the land due to environmental concerns or development, and these new grants will help protect our producers and ensure that family farms remain family businesses. I remain committed to giving our farmers a voice in Albany, and I look forward to advocating their concerns as we progress through this year’s session.”
More information can be found on the state’s Agriculture and Markets site and interested applicants can access grant information here. Applications will be processed until all funding for the program has been exhausted.
Hawley is the former owner/operator of Hawley Farms in Batavia and sits on the Assembly’s Agriculture Committee.
January 16, 2018
HAWLEY REACTS TO GOV.’S BUDGET ADDRESS
A Statement from Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) on Gov. Cuomo’s 2018 Executive Budget Address
“The governor’s budget address seemed to hinge on two potentially devastating ideals today, more taxes and more spending even as we face a $4 billion budget shortfall.
“We spend over $160 billion in taxpayer money each year, and for the governor to proclaim that we cannot find ways to curb spending by eliminating many of these ‘optional’ Medicaid programs is disingenuous. We spend nearly $60 billion a year on Medicaid, more than Texas and Florida combined.
“While the governor continues to blame Washington for our problems, I will be focusing on what we can control here. This budget deficit of $4 to $6 billion is his responsibility resulting from the budget he signed into law last year – not Washington D.C.’s.
I will remain focused on reducing our tax burden, making New York more business friendly, reforming our charitable gaming laws and repairing our crumbling infrastructure.”
HAWLEY CALLS FOR EXTENDING PISTOL PERMIT RECERTIFICATION DEADLINE
Joins host of bi-partisan legislators from both houses in letter to Gov. Cuomo requesting a deadline extension for SAFE Act recertification requirements
As a result of new pistol permit recertification requirements that are in effect this year for the first time due to Gov. Cuomo’s controversial gun control measure passed in 2013, Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) has joined a host of bi-partisan legislators from both the Assembly and Senate in writing to Gov. Cuomo requesting that the recertification deadline within the NY Safe Act be extended.
“There are currently about 1.2 million pistol permit holders in New York State, but only around 230,000 have recertified as of Tuesday, January 2, 2018…We are urging you to extend the pistol permit deadline, which would allow the County Clerks and Sheriffs of this State the appropriate amount of time to process recertification requests,” the legislators wrote. “We believe this action will help law-abiding gun owners comply with the current law, without the risk of turning them into felons overnight.”
Hawley has consistently voiced his opposition to the SAFE Act since 2013 as an infringement on constitutional rights and the fact that the bill was rammed through the Legislature in the middle of the night by use of a Message of Necessity by Gov. Cuomo, overriding the mandated three-day aging process of legislation before it is voted upon.
“The SAFE Act was one of the worst pieces of legislation I’ve ever seen as a state legislator,” Hawley said. “It was rushed through the legislative process under the cover of darkness and hidden from public criticism using a technique that is supposed to be reserved for emergencies.”
“Despite the problems with this legislation, it is important that gun owners adhere to the law and do not lose their pistol certifications,” Hawley continued. “We are seeing many local governments overburdened with paperwork, and they need more time to get the word out and ensure that law-abiding gun owner can comply with new regulations. I implore Gov. Cuomo to extend the deadline in light of these many concerns.”
January 10, 2018
INDIVIDUALS FLOURISH WHEN GOV’T TAKES A BACK SEAT
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) outlines his budget priorities
Government is about the people. Making a difference in the everyday lives of individuals should be the central role to which we aspire as legislators. Society flourishes when personal freedom and liberty rule the day, not directives and penalties handed down in the form of taxes and mandates.
Unfortunately for New Yorkers, Gov. Cuomo’s State of the State Address last week was filled with the latter. Lofty expansion of programs and more state spending is what many witnessed but few desire.
According to the Tax Foundation, New York ranks 49th in the country in tax climate for businesses for the fourth year in a row. In addition, our state ranks 49th in terms of tax levies on personal income, 47th in property-taxes and 43rd in sales taxes – all of which have contributed to more than one millions residents who have left the state since 2010.
We have the power to change these embarrassing statistics and rewrite New York’s mantra of tax, fine and harass.
The solutions start with reducing fraud and waste in our Medicaid system, which spends more than Florida and Texas combined, and mitigating the over 140,000 pages of regulations Albany elites impose on our job creators – not bloating government as Gov. Cuomo proclaims.
Mandates like these, which counties and local governments cannot afford, are eventually paid by individuals in the form of higher property and state taxes.
We need to build on the success of the Charitable Gaming Act that was signed into law last year and further empower the thousands of fire departments, Kiwanis and Rotary Clubs, non-profits, churches and charitable organizations that provide tremendous community services through their raffles.
Lake Ontario flood victims are still hurting and this year’s budget should include more funding to help these struggling individuals and business owners return to normalcy.
State government should hinge on allowing people to flourish and that cannot happen if disconnected elites like Gov. Cuomo continue to use their tax dollars to tax, penalize and restrict them.
January 10, 2018
HAWLEY JOINS HOST OF NY LAWMAKERS IN CALLING FOR ADDITIONAL FUNDING FOR LAKE ONTARIO FLOOD VICTIMS
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) today personally hand-delivered a letter to Gov. Cuomo, signed by nine other state legislators who represent districts along Lake Ontario’s Southern Shore, requesting an increase in funding for each not-for-profit housing organization to be able to meet the needs of all pending homeowner applications.
“Although this program (The Lake Ontario Relief and Recovery Program) provided vital assistance to individual homeowners, businesses and municipalities, the $15 million that was intended to reimburse homeowners has already been depleted,” Hawley wrote.
Hawley, who was one of the first elected officials to tour flooding along the shoreline firsthand, was instrumental in securing funding for this program during last year’s session and has written to Gov. Cuomo urging him to petition President Trump to renegotiate Plan 2014.
“It is clear to us that although $15 million was a good start to help reimburse homeowners, unfortunately, it did not even scratch the surface,” Hawley continued in the letter. “We respectfully request full disclosure from NYS Homes and Community Renewal detailing the number of outstanding applications and the exact amount of funding needed for reimbursement. This funding should be part of this year’s budget.”
January 3, 2018
HAWLEY REACTS TO STATE OF STATE ADDRESS
A Statement from Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia)
“Although I am glad that the governor did not continue his game of political hide-and-seek with the legislature as we saw last year, wasting large sums of taxpayer money to present over 20 ideas with unsubstantiated legislative backing or confirmed funding sources amounts to little more than an expensive taxpayer-funded speech.
“I am glad to be back in Albany continuing to work hard for the residents of Genesee, Orleans and Monroe counties with my focus on lowing our families’ tax burden, making New York more business friendly, fully funding our infrastructure and continuing to reform our charitable gaming laws.”
CLICK HERE for an .mp4 video interview of Hawley following the State of the State Address
