Contact Information:
Governor's Press Office
NYC Press Office: 212.681.4640
Albany Press Office: 518.474.8418
press.office@exec.ny.gov

Albany, NY (May 16, 2011)

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced the following nominations and appointments to his administration:

Benjamin M. Lawsky was nominated to be the Superintendent of the Department of Financial Services.

Governor Cuomo created the Department of Financial Services (DFS) by merging the New York State Banking Department and the New York State Department of Insurance as part of the 2011-12 budget. The DFS is designed to better regulate modern financial services organizations.
By combining the Banking and Insurance Departments into a unified financial regulator, the new Department of Financial Services will be a more efficient, modern, and comprehensive regulator of the financial sector.

Mr. Lawsky is currently the Governor's Chief of Staff. He previously served as the Deputy Counselor and Special Assistant throughout the administration of then-Attorney General Cuomo.

Prior to that, Mr. Lawsky spent more than five years as an Assistant United States Attorney in the Southern District of New York, where he prosecuted securities fraud, organized crime, and terrorism cases. Previous to that, Mr. Lawsky served as Chief Counsel to Senator Charles Schumer on the Senate Judiciary Committee and as a Trial Attorney in the Civil Division of the Department of Justice.

James J. Wrynn will be appointed to serve as Deputy Superintendent of Financial Services. Most recently, Mr. Wrynn was the Superintendent for the New York State Insurance Department. Prior to that, he spent 25 years as a trial attorney focusing in the areas of life, accident and health insurance, property and casualty insurance, general liability insurance, insurance coverage disputes, professional malpractice, and product liability.

Fernando Ferrer was nominated to be a member of the board of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority.

Mr. Ferrer was the Bronx Borough President from 1987-2001 and a New York City Mayoral candidate in 2001 and 2005. In addition, he was a member of the New York City Council from 1982 to 1987.

Jonathan Sheffer was nominated to be a member of the Council on the Arts.

Mr. Sheffer is a conductor and composer who founded the Eos Orchestra in NY, and has appeared as a guest conductor around the world. He is a graduate of Harvard University and later was a student at Juilliard Extension and Aspen School of Music. He currently serves as the New York City Council Speaker's designee to the board of Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts.

Governor Cuomo also announced the nominations of members to the Public Health and Health Planning Council:

    Arthur Aaron Levin: a member of several patient advocacy groups and current Director of the Center for Medical Consumers
    Ellen E. Grant: Director of the Cornerstone Manor of the Buffalo City Mission, a women's and children's shelter, and Managing Partner of First
    Advantage Consulting
    Angel Alfonso Gutierrez: Doctor under contract by the Office of Professional Medical Conduct at the New York State Department of Health
    office in Buffalo
    John M Palmer: Executive Director of the Harlem Hospital Center and Renaissance Health Care Network
    Victoria Hines: President & CEO of the Visiting Nurse Service of Rochester & Monroe County
    Chris Booth: President & COO of Lifetime Healthcare Companies/Excellus Blue Cross Blue Shield in Rochester
    Jeffrey Kraut: Senior Vice President, Strategy at North Shore-LIJ Health System
    John Rugge: Founder, CEO, and physician at Hudson Headwaters Health Network in Queensbury
    Howard Berliner: Former Professor and Chair of the Department of Health Policy and Management at SUNY Downstate School of Public
    Health
    Ann Marie Theresa Sullivan: Senior Vice President of the Queens Health Network
    Glenn Martin: Director of Medical Informatics at Queens Health Network and Associate Director of the Program for the Protection of Human
    Subjects at the Mt. Sinai School of Medicine
    Anderson Torres Ph.D: Director of Health Initiatives at Bon Secours New York Health System Schervier Nursing Care Center, and an Adjunct
    Professor at Fordham University Graduate School of Social Services, Westchester Campus.

Other than Mr. Wrynn, these nominations are subject to Senate confirmation.

John T. Milgrim was appointed to serve as Deputy Inspector General for Public Affairs.

Mr. Milgrim has most recently been serving as the Governor's Director of Special Projects. He previously served as press secretary throughout the administration of then-Attorney General Cuomo.

Previously, Mr. Milgrim worked for 15 years as an award-winning journalist for the Dow Jones Community Newspaper Group, the last six years of which were covering New York State government as a member of the Legislative Correspondents Association in the Capitol.

###

Contact Information:
Governor's Press Office
NYC Press Office: 212.681.4640
Albany Press Office: 518.474.8418
press.office@exec.ny.gov

Albany, NY (May 16, 2011)

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today continued his "People First Campaign" at Hofstra University, where he outlined his legislative priorities and told Long Islanders that their voices must be heard in order to get Albany to act on these key reforms.

Last week, Governor Cuomo and his senior staff began a statewide tour in order to speak directly to the people of New York about, among other issues, creating a property tax cap, cleaning up Albany by passing ethics reform, and passing a marriage equality bill. Governor Cuomo said that all of these issues must be addressed during the current legislative session and asked New Yorkers to call their legislators and urge them to act.

"Real reform begins with the people, and that is why my team continues to travel the state to bring our message to as many New Yorkers as possible as we build a coalition for change," Governor Cuomo said. "We need stronger ethics oversight in Albany, a property tax cap that will help our families and businesses, and marriage equality for all. If we work together and speak with one voice, we can bring true change to New York."

The Governor's People First campaign focuses on three specific legislative priorities:

Property Tax Cap:

New Yorkers pay among the highest property taxes in the nation, forcing families to sell their homes and move out of state. Massive property tax increases also discourage businesses from investing and creating jobs. In the last decade, property taxes have increased a staggering 73 percent – that's twice the rate of inflation.

Governor Cuomo has proposed a comprehensive tax cap that would control property taxes. Under his plan:

• Local school districts and governments could only raise property taxes each year by 2 percent or the rate of inflation, whichever is less.
• All governments would be included under this plan, and few exemptions would be allowed.
• Local communities and local voters would retain control, however, and could override the cap. For school boards it would require a 60 percent vote on the budget and for non-school boards it would require a two-thirds vote of the responsible legislative body.

Ultimately, the property tax cap would give much-needed relief to New York taxpayers and encourage local governments and school districts to be more efficient and make the most of their resources.

Senator Kemp Hannon said, "Governor Cuomo's tax cap plan will provide needed relief for Long Island families and I was proud to support its passage in the Senate. I am glad that he has returned to Long Island and Hofstra University to talk about his vision for New York. We have much to do to move New York forward and I am eager to work with the Governor to achieve real results for the people."

President & CEO of the Long Island Association Kevin Law said, "The Long Island Association supports Governor Cuomo's property tax cap proposal and we look forward to working with him to get the Legislature to pass it into law. We are happy to be part of the Governor's coalition of supporters who want real change in state government and want it during this legislative session."

Ethics Reform:

New York State government used to be a symbol of integrity and performance, but we have lost that standard. To clean up the government and restore trust with New Yorkers, we need to pass a new ethics law that mandates transparency and full disclosure as well as a law that calls for a real independent monitor.

Among many reforms, the Governor's ethics reform agenda would:

• Require disclosure of clients doing business with the state that are represented by legislators before the state and disclosure of how much they get paid.
• Require the creation of an independent body to provide oversight and enforcement of ethics rules because, as we have seen in the past, self-policing does not work.
• Require lobbyists to disclose any business relationship with legislators in excess of $1,000.
• Strip pensions from those public officials convicted of a felony related to the abuse of their official duties.

Marriage Equality:

Despite our state's proud tradition as the progressive capital of the nation, on the issue of marriage equality, New York has sadly lagged behind. While gay and lesbian New Yorkers can drive to Massachusetts or Connecticut to be married, such marriages are not permitted in New York. In the face of New York's failure to act and to lead, states like New Hampshire, Iowa, Vermont, and the District of Columbia have all recognized the importance of marriage equality and now allow same-sex couples to marry.

Governor Cuomo has repeatedly said that it is time to for our state to retake our leading role in guaranteeing equal rights for all. This is about civil rights and equality. Denying marriage to all undermines the very dignity and legitimacy that our state routinely provides to other couples.

Barring marriage equality denies same-sex couples and their families over 1,000 federal and 700 state rights that are afforded to millions of New Yorkers. For instance, spouses have hospital visitation rights and can make medical decisions in the event of illness or disability. Employers offer spouses sick leave and bereavement leave as well as access to health insurance and pensions. Also, the law provides certain rights to a person's spouse regardless of whether or not a will exists. None of these rights exist for same-sex couples in the absence of marriage.

The Assembly has passed marriage equality legislation in previous legislative sessions but in 2009 the bill failed to pass the Senate.

Chief Executive Officer of the Long Island GLBT Services Network David Kilmnick said, "It is great to have a Governor who stands so strongly on the side of equality for the GLBT community. By including marriage equality in his top legislative priorities, Governor Cuomo is living up to the commitment to put people first in making New York a better state for all its residents."

Governor Cuomo has repeatedly indicated that for real reform to occur in New York, he must make his case directly to the people of the state. Explaining the issues and maintaining an open dialogue allows New Yorkers to form an opinion, organize, and make Albany act.

Nassau County Executive Edward Mangano said, "Residents of Nassau County know how much of a burden property taxes place on our communities and I am happy that one of the Governor's top priorities is passing a property tax cap. I supported the Governor's tax cap during the campaign, I support it now, and I urge the Legislature to pass it as soon as possible. I look forward to working with the Governor to strengthen New York's economy and to provide a better future for all of our residents."

Hempstead Mayor Wayne Hall said, "As a mayor, I know that Albany has failed to get control of property taxes and has not addressed the needs facing communities like Hempstead. We need jobs, housing, and a state government that works for us. Governor Cuomo is working for us and it is time that the Legislature followed his lead. The Governor's agenda will ensure that New York remains on the path to fiscal prosperity and maintains its reputation as a progressive leader in the United States."

Hofstra University President Stuart Rabinowitz said, "It is an honor to once again host Governor Cuomo at Hofstra University as he maintains an open dialogue with the people of Long Island. We are fortunate to have a Governor so passionate and committed to bringing real change to Albany."

For more information about the People First tour, visit www.NYPeopleFirst.com.

###

Albany, NY (May 13, 2011)

The last major reorganization of New York State government occurred over eighty years ago. Since then, our government has grown into a sprawling and expensive bureaucracy.

To rebuild an effective state government, Governor Cuomo has created the Spending and Government Efficiency (SAGE) Commission. This team of business leaders, management experts, and academics will help streamline the government and save taxpayers' money.

Now, through this commission, all New Yorkers have the opportunity to directly contribute to the renewal of our state. Governor Cuomo wants to hear your ideas for cutting costs, finding efficiencies, and doing more with less.

Click here to submit your ideas for fixing your government.

With your help, we can redesign our state government to bring long-term savings and better services to all New Yorkers.

Contact Information:
Governor's Press Office
NYC Press Office: 212.681.4640
Albany Press Office: 518.474.8418
press.office@exec.ny.gov

Albany, NY (May 13, 2011)

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today urged House Speaker John Boehner and Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid to block a proposal to slash federal homeland security funding given to the states by 50 percent. In his letter, Governor Cuomo said the dramatic cut would hamper New York's efforts to prevent terrorist attacks and protect New Yorkers. House Republicans have proposed reducing the grant funding from $2.2 billion this year to $1 billion next year.

"These cuts would significantly impact our ability to train and equip police, firefighters, and other first responders and otherwise maintain the highest level of security New Yorkers need and deserve," Governor Cuomo wrote.

The Governor's letter can be found here:

Dear Speaker Boehner and Leader Reid,

At a time when the federal government is warning that we may see retaliatory attacks for the death of Osama Bin Laden, congressionally proposed cuts to state and local homeland security grants for the FY2012 federal budget would undermine the very initiatives that have been put in place to protect our nation and people from the persistent and evolving threat of terrorism.

Since September 11th, New York State has been the target of thirteen terrorist plots. Most were thwarted through the collaborative investigative prowess among local, state and federal law enforcement officials, as well as citizens who reported suspicious activity. Some plots, including Faisal Shazad's attempted bombing of Times Square and the crowded Theatre District, failed. Under all scenarios, federal support to the state and local officials who are literally on the front lines of the war of terrorism being waged against us is essential. The capability to prevent, protect against, respond to and recover from a terrorist attack requires the full participation of all levels of government. That is exactly what the funding made available through the State Homeland Security Program (SHSP) and Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) grants has as its goal.

Thursday's arrest by the NYPD of two suspects who were targeting multiple synagogues and the Empire State Building demonstrate that the death of Bin Laden does not mean the threat of terrorism has abated. With the 10th anniversary of September 11th and the opening of World Trade Center Memorial only months away, this plot was simultaneously the latest success story and sober reminder that our city and state remains in the crosshairs of those who use bombs and bullets to make their points. Osama Bin Laden himself cited the 10th anniversary as a date his followers should target for attack. Now is not the time for the federal government to step back from the partnership with state and local governments in defense of our nation.

Your leadership is needed to prevent these harmful cuts and to ensure that our nation does not degrade its abilities to meet the threat of terrorism.

###

Contact Information:
Governor's Press Office
NYC Press Office: 212.681.4640
Albany Press Office: 518.474.8418
press.office@exec.ny.gov

Albany, NY (May 13, 2011)

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today sent the following letter to the Chancellor of the Board of Regents Merryl Tisch regarding changes needed to improve and accelerate performance evaluations for teachers.

The Governor’s full letter is as follows:

Dear Chancellor Tisch:

Performance is the key to education. It’s not about how much we spend, but the results that matter. As data show our education spending hasn’t resulted in performance. New York schools spend 71 percent more than the national average, yet rank only 40th in graduation rates and 34th in the nation in the percentage of adults who have a high school diploma or the equivalent.

We must focus on measures and accountability. That is why the State Education Department’s (“SED”) current process to develop a teacher and principal evaluation system is critically important. We not only need a strong evaluation system that will improve the performance of our children, but also to support our educators so they can continually develop and improve. Our goal should be to have the best system of evaluation in the nation, yet our proposed system falls short of other states, such as Colorado and Tennessee.

What SED establishes today will have a lasting effect for decades to come so it is imperative it’s done correctly. The current Draft Regulations for Teacher and Principal Evaluation (“Draft Regulations”) that were recently issued, however, need revision if we are to implement a system that will be the building blocks to greater performance in our education system.

Although there are a number of details in need of improvement, we recommend SED make the following comprehensive changes:


    • Increase the percentage of statewide objective data, like measuring student growth on statewide test scores, used to evaluate teacher performance;

    • Impose rigorous classroom observation and other subjective measures standards on school districts when evaluating teacher performance;

    • Require a positive teacher evaluation rating be given only when the teacher receives a combined positive rating on both subjective and objective measures, such as student growth on statewide tests; and,

    • Accelerate the implementation of the evaluation system.

These are discussed in more detail below and, if implemented, will greatly strengthen the evaluation process.

    • First, remove the explicit language prohibiting the same measure of student growth on state assessments from being used for locally-selected assessment measures and state measures simultaneously

The Draft Regulations explicitly bar a school district from using the same measure of student growth on the same assessment for both the state assessment subcomponent and the locally-selected measures subcomponent. We believe such a prohibition is unnecessarily restrictive because it precludes a school district from using the objective state-developed growth measure for the locally-selected measures.

The Draft Regulations should be amended to permit the same student growth measure be used for the state assessment and locally-selected measures. By removing this prohibition in the Draft Regulations, up to 40 percent of the total score could be based on objective student growth measures on state tests—a percentage that is closer to many other states.

This change would ensure that greater balance is struck between using objective teacher evaluation measures, such as statewide testing, and subjective teacher evaluation measures, such as classroom observation. Given that the subjective measures have far greater weight under the evaluation process system, it is imperative that the Draft Regulations adopted do not explicitly reduce the types of objective assessments, such as growth on state tests, available to be used.

    • Second, impose additional standards on school districts to improve the 60 percent of locally-developed rubric requirements, such as the observation process, to make evaluations more rigorous

The Draft Regulations must be strengthened and better defined to make the 60 percent subjective criteria to evaluate teachers more valuable. Already, New York is an outlier as compared to other states in that it requires more weight be given to subjective measures when rating teachers. Therefore, it is critical that the Draft Regulations include greater precision and impose clear standards.

For example, under the Draft Regulations, half of the 60 percent of the locally-developed rubric must be based on classroom observation. Studies have shown that a rigorous evaluation program based on classroom observation is a significant component in promoting student achievement growth. As such, the classroom observation requirement should be increased from half to at least 40 percent of the 60 percent total of the locally-developed rubric.

Moreover, the Draft Regulations should establish baseline standards to make classroom observation a more meaningful measure. At a minimum it is vital that the Draft Regulations require multiple annual observations and include criteria for using third party observers.

    • Third, require a positive teacher evaluation rating be given only when the teacher receives a combined positive rating on both subjective and objective measures, such as student growth on statewide tests

As was discussed above, under the Draft Regulations, objective measurements (e.g. state assessments) have lower weight than subjective measurements to evaluate teachers. In addition, there is no guarantee that objective measures have much meaning in the currently proposed scoring bands. In essence, a teacher could receive a positive rating, such as “developing”, based only on subjective teacher evaluation measures.

Other states, such as Delaware and Rhode Island, require “effective” ratings in both the subjective and objective testing measures in order for a teacher or principal to receive an overall “effective” rating. No such requirement exists under the Draft Regulations and therefore diminishes the weight given to objective measurements in the evaluation process. Therefore, at a minimum, the scoring bands should be adjusted to give greater weight to the objective measures by not allowing a positive rating based on subjective measures alone. As an alternative, it is recommended that a teacher or principal be rated “effective” in both objective and subjective categories in order to receive an overall “effective” or “highly effective” rating.

    • Fourth, accelerate the timetable of implementing the evaluation system

I appreciate your assistance in accelerating the process so the evaluation system could be implemented for all teachers prior to the full implementation deadline of the 2012-13 school year. However, we must make sure that school districts begin the process in an expeditious manner. Endless implementation delays will hamper our ability to ensure our children are getting the best education, because a system not implemented is of no use.

Since SED has articulated the criteria for implementing the entire teacher and principal evaluation system, schools districts should fully implement the teacher and principal evaluation system for the 2011-12 school year and therefore the Draft Regulations should authorize school districts to do so.

Finally, my Administration will aggressively seek to incentivize schools districts to implement the evaluation system expeditiously. Therefore, only those districts that actually perform, and implement the teacher and principal evaluation system, would be eligible for the Executive’s School Performance Incentive Program—a $500 million program—that I included in the Executive Budget. School districts would potentially lose millions of dollars on state awards for failure to implement the system quickly.

We must not squander the opportunity to set the right course and make New York a leader in evaluating performance in our education system. If done correctly we will revive our education system to ensure students perform better and succeed in their future careers. The recommendations above will help set the course. Now is our chance to make New York a leader in education performance.

Sincerely,

Andrew M. Cuomo

Governor

###

Contact Information:
Governor's Press Office
NYC Press Office: 212.681.4640
Albany Press Office: 518.474.8418
press.office@exec.ny.gov

Albany, NY (May 13, 2011)

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced the launch of the Spending and Government Efficiency (SAGE) Commission's Web site to invite the public's participation in the process of modernizing and right-sizing state government, improving performance, increasing accountability and saving taxpayers' money.

The Web site, www.governor.ny.gov/sage, allows the public to suggest ways to improve the efficiency and quality of government services. The submissions will be an integral component to the reform process. The site will also include listings of the SAGE Commission's public meetings and materials from the Commission's first meeting on April 25.

"As I have said repeatedly, right-sizing government is essential to get the state back on the right track, but we can’t do it alone ," Governor Cuomo said. "The future success of New York requires that we consolidate the sprawl of state entities, find efficiencies, and further improve the state's operations. As this is the people's government, the public must have a say in how it operates."

The Commission includes representatives from the private sector, labor and government. The Commission is co-Chaired by Antonio M. Perez, Chairman and C.E.O of Eastman Kodak Company and Paul Francis, the Director of Agency Redesign and Efficiency.

The SAGE Commission is conducting a comprehensive review of state government including its structures, operations and processes with the ultimate goal of saving taxpayers' money, increasing accountability and improving the delivery of government services. The Commission's final recommendations to the Governor will be delivered by June 1, 2012. Periodic progress reports will be delivered on an ongoing basis.

###

Contact Information:
Governor's Press Office
NYC Press Office: 212.681.4640
Albany Press Office: 518.474.8418
press.office@exec.ny.gov

Albany, NY (May 12, 2011)

Lieutenant Governor Robert J. Duffy today brought the "People First Campaign" to Dowling College, where he outlined Governor Cuomo's legislative priorities and told New Yorkers that their voices must be heard in order to get Albany to act on these key reforms.

Last week, Governor Cuomo announced that he and his senior staff would tour the state in order to speak directly to the people of New York about, among other issues, creating a property tax cap, cleaning up Albany by passing ethics reform, and passing a marriage equality bill. Governor Cuomo said that all of these issues must be addressed during the current legislative session and asked New Yorkers to call their legislators and urge them to act.

"My team is crisscrossing the state to meet with New Yorkers and to speak about how we can all work together to pass this vital legislation before the end of session," Governor Cuomo said. "Our message is clear: when New Yorkers speak, the politicians in Albany will listen. When people are actively engaged in their government, we can make New York the Empire State once again."

"We are here in Suffolk County today to speak directly to New Yorkers about Governor Cuomo's roadmap for reform," Lieutenant Governor Duffy said. "Our legislative agenda will move our state forward by achieving a property tax cap, ethics reform, and marriage equality for all. We are bringing government right to the people and working collaboratively with New Yorkers to deliver real change for our state."

The Governor's People First campaign focuses on three specific legislative priorities:

Property Tax Cap:

New Yorkers pay among the highest property taxes in the nation, forcing families to sell their homes and move out of state. Massive property tax increases also discourage businesses from investing and creating jobs. In the last decade, property taxes have increased a staggering 73 percent – that's twice the rate of inflation.

Governor Cuomo has proposed a comprehensive tax cap that would control property taxes. Under his plan:

Local school districts and governments could only raise property taxes each year by 2 percent or the rate of inflation, whichever is less.

All governments would be included under this plan, and few exemptions would be allowed.

Local communities and local voters would retain control, however, and could override the cap. For school boards it would require a 60 percent vote on the budget, and for non-school boards it would require a two-thirds vote of the responsible legislative body.

Ultimately, the property tax cap would give much-needed relief to New York taxpayers and encourage local governments and school districts to be more efficient and make the most of their resources.

Ethics Reform:

New York State government used to be a symbol of integrity and performance, but we have lost that standard. To clean up the government and restore trust with New Yorkers, we need to pass a new ethics law that mandates transparency and full disclosure as well as a law that calls for a real independent monitor.

Among many reforms, the Governor's ethics reform agenda would:

Require disclosure of clients doing business with the state that are represented by legislators before the state and disclosure of how much they get paid.

Require the creation of an independent body to provide oversight and enforcement of ethics rules because, as we have seen in the past, self-policing does not work.

Require lobbyists to disclose any business relationship with legislators in excess of $1,000.

Strip pensions from those public officials convicted of a felony related to the abuse of their official duties.

Marriage Equality:

Despite our state's proud tradition as the progressive capital of the nation, on the issue of marriage equality, New York has sadly lagged behind. While gay and lesbian New Yorkers can drive to Massachusetts or Connecticut to be married, such marriages are not permitted in New York. In the face of New York's failure to act and to lead, states like New Hampshire, Iowa, Vermont, and the District of Columbia have all recognized the importance of marriage equality and now allow same-sex couples to marry.

Governor Cuomo has repeatedly said that it is time to for our state to retake our leading role in guaranteeing equal rights for all. This is about civil rights and equality. Denying marriage to all undermines the very dignity and legitimacy that our state routinely provides to other couples.

Barring marriage equality denies same-sex couples and their families over 1,000 federal and 700 state rights that are afforded to millions of New Yorkers. For instance, spouses have hospital visitation rights and can make medical decisions in the event of illness or disability. Employers offer spouses sick leave, bereavement leave, as well as access to health insurance and pensions. Also, the law provides certain rights to a person's spouse regardless of whether or not a will exists. None of these rights exist for same-sex couples in the absence of marriage.

The Assembly has passed marriage equality legislation in previous legislative sessions but in 2009, the bill failed to pass the Senate.

Governor Cuomo has repeatedly indicated that for real reform to occur in New York, he must make his case directly to the people of the state. Explaining the issues and maintaining an open dialogue allows New Yorkers to form an opinion, organize, and make Albany act.

For more information about the People First tour, visit www.NYPeopleFirst.com.

###

Contact Information:
Governor's Press Office
NYC Press Office: 212.681.4640
Albany Press Office: 518.474.8418
press.office@exec.ny.gov

Albany, NY (May 12, 2011)

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today continued his "People First Campaign" at Buffalo State College, where he outlined his legislative priorities and told Western New Yorkers that their voices must be heard in order to get Albany to act on these key reforms.

Last week, Governor Cuomo announced that he and his senior staff would tour the state in order to speak directly to the people of New York about, among other issues, creating a property tax cap, cleaning up Albany by passing ethics reform and passing a marriage equality bill. Governor Cuomo said that all of these issues must be addressed during the current legislative session and asked New Yorkers to call their legislators and urge them to act.

"Our entire team is traveling across the state, speaking directly to New Yorkers in Buffalo and beyond about the issues that can move this state forward," Governor Cuomo said. "We need to pass a property tax cap, ethics reform, and marriage equality during this legislative session and time is short. When the people speak, politicians listen and react accordingly. It is time to collectively speak up and make this the Empire State once again"

The Governor's People First campaign focuses on three specific legislative priorities:

Property Tax Cap:

New Yorkers pay among the highest property taxes in the nation, forcing families to sell their homes and move out of state. Massive property tax increases also discourage businesses from investing and creating jobs. In the last decade, property taxes have increased a staggering 73 percent – that's twice the rate of inflation.

Governor Cuomo has proposed a comprehensive tax cap that would control property taxes. Under his plan:

Local school districts and governments could only raise property taxes each year by 2 percent or the rate of inflation, whichever is less.

All governments would be included under this plan, and few exemptions would be allowed.

Local communities and local voters would retain control, however, and could override the cap. For school boards it would require a 60 percent vote on the budget, and for non-school boards it would require a two-thirds vote of the responsible legislative body.

Ultimately, the property tax cap would give much-needed relief to New York taxpayers and encourage local governments and school districts to be more efficient and make the most of their resources.

Andrew Rudnick, President and CEO of the Buffalo Niagara Partnership said, "Runaway taxes are suffocating businesses, hampering job growth, and driving people away from Western New York. The Governor's tax cap plan puts New Yorkers first, and will force governments to find efficiencies. We can choose the right direction, which is a cap that helps New Yorkers and reverses a statewide downward spiral, or we can maintain the status quo. We want change and we fully support Governor Cuomo."

Ethics Reform:

New York State government used to be a symbol of integrity and performance, but we have lost that standard. To clean up the government and restore trust with New Yorkers, we need to pass a new ethics law that mandates transparency and full disclosure as well as a law that calls for a real independent monitor.

Among many reforms the Governor's ethics reform agenda would:

Require disclosure of clients doing business with the state that are represented by legislators before the state and disclosure of how much they get paid.

Require the creation of an independent body to provide oversight and enforcement of ethics rules because, as we have seen in the past, self-policing does not work.

Require lobbyists to disclose any business relationship with legislators in excess of $1,000.

Strip pensions from those public officials convicted of a felony related to the abuse of their official duties.

Marcia Merrins, Past President of the New York State League of Women Voters and member of LWV Chautauqua County, said, "For years the League of Women Voters advocated for an empowered independent entity to enforce ethics rules in NYS for lobbyists, public officials and candidates. There should be penalties for bad behavior that should be sufficient to compel full disclosure and dissuade activities that are unethical under NYS laws. We applaud Governor Cuomo's measures to bring ethics back to Albany. The League will continue to advocate for this until citizens are protected from misdirected candidates, lobbyists, and public officials."

Marriage Equality:

Despite our state's proud tradition as the progressive capital of the nation, on the issue of marriage equality, New York has sadly lagged behind. While gay and lesbian New Yorkers can drive to Massachusetts or Connecticut to be married, such marriages are not permitted in New York. In the face of New York's failure to act and to lead, states like New Hampshire, Iowa, Vermont and the District of Columbia have all recognized the importance of marriage equality and now allow same-sex couples to marry.

Governor Cuomo has repeatedly said that it is time to for our state to retake our leading role in guaranteeing equal rights for all. This is about civil rights and equality. Denying marriage to all undermines the very dignity and legitimacy that our state routinely provides to other couples.

Barring marriage equality denies same-sex couples and their families over 1,000 federal and 700 state rights that are afforded to millions of New Yorkers. For instance, spouses have hospital visitation rights and can make medical decisions in the event of illness or disability. Employers offer spouses sick leave, bereavement leave as well as access to health insurance and pensions. Also, the law provides certain rights to a person's spouse regardless of whether or not a will exists. None of these rights exist for same-sex couples in the absence of marriage.

The Assembly has passed marriage equality legislation in previous legislative sessions but in 2009, the bill failed to pass the Senate.

Kitty Lambert, President of OUTspoken for Equality, said, "As Governor Cuomo has said, marriage equality is a fundamental civil rights issue. The majority of New Yorkers support it – and it is time for Albany to listen to the people. We are proud to be a part of the Governor's coalition to bring real change to this state, and bring it now, so that all New Yorkers can enjoy equal benefits, rights and recognition."

Governor Cuomo has repeatedly indicated that for real reform to occur in New York, he must make his case directly to the people of the state. Explaining the issues and maintaining an open dialogue allows New Yorkers to form an opinion, organize, and make Albany act.

Senator Mark Grisanti said, "I am proud that Governor Cuomo has once again come to Buffalo to discuss his priorities. His visible presence in Western New York shows that he is attuned to the issues most important in our region and I applaud his bringing his message of reform directly to the people. I look forward to working with his administration to make our state a better place to live and work."

Assemblyman Sam Hoyt said, "Governor Cuomo's leadership in just a few months has already improved how New York state operates. His bold agenda is one that Buffalo residents and businesses have been calling for for years. It is past time for New York to once again thrive and be a progressive leader of the nation. And, it is time for the Legislature to get to work to pass these important measures. I thank Governor Cuomo for coming here today and look forward to helping him put this plan into action."

Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown said, "We are always honored to host Governor Cuomo in Buffalo. His work on behalf of the people of the state has been nothing short of exemplary so far and New Yorkers can share in a sense of reassurance that his momentum is continuing. From where we sit in Western New York, we have witnessed with shame and astonishment the lack of action in Albany and the dysfunction that has led to legislative paralysis. It is time to change this practice and bring in an era of accountability to our state government. I am proud to call the Governor a partner and look forward to continuing to work with him."

Buffalo State College President Aaron Podolefsky said, "Buffalo State College is delighted to host Governor Cuomo on his People First campaign. New York state is fortunate to have a governor that is so engaged and willing to take his message of reform directly to the people. The notion of the People First campaign is noble and we are proud to have him as a part of our community."

For more information about the People First tour, visit www.NYPeopleFirst.com.

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Contact Information:
Governor's Press Office
NYC Press Office: 212.681.4640
Albany Press Office: 518.474.8418
press.office@exec.ny.gov

Albany, NY (May 11, 2011)

New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) Commissioner Darryl Towns today brought the "People First Campaign" to Corning Community College, where he outlined Governor Cuomo's legislative priorities and told New Yorkers that their voices must be heard in order to get Albany to act on these key reforms.

Last week, Governor Cuomo announced that he and his senior staff would tour the state in order to speak directly to the people of New York about, among other issues, creating a property tax cap, cleaning up Albany by passing ethics reform and passing a marriage equality bill. Governor Cuomo said that all of these issues must be addressed during the current legislative session and asked New Yorkers to call their legislators and urge them to act.

"Darryl Towns has traveled to Elmira to share our message of ethics reform, a property tax cap, and marriage equality," Governor Cuomo said. "We are speaking directly with New Yorkers because change happens when the people are active and engaged with their government. My team will be blanketing the state, bringing government to the people and working to get these important reforms accomplished during this legislative session."

The Governor's People First campaign focuses on three specific legislative priorities:

Property Tax Cap:

New Yorkers pay among the highest property taxes in the nation, forcing families to sell their homes and move out of state. Massive property tax increases also discourage businesses from investing and creating jobs. In the last decade, property taxes have increased a staggering 73 percent – that's twice the rate of inflation.

Governor Cuomo has proposed a comprehensive tax cap that would control property taxes. Under his plan:

Local school districts and governments could only raise property taxes each year by 2 percent or the rate of inflation, whichever is less.

All governments would be included under this plan, and few exemptions would be allowed.

Local communities and local voters would retain control, however, and could override the cap. For school boards it would require a 60 percent vote on the budget, and for non-school boards it would require a two-thirds vote of the responsible legislative body.

Ultimately, the property tax cap would give much-needed relief to New York taxpayers and encourage local governments and school districts to be more efficient and make the most of their resources.

Ethics Reform:

New York State government used to be a symbol of integrity and performance, but we have lost that standard. To clean up the government and restore trust with New Yorkers, we need to pass a new ethics law that mandates transparency and full disclosure as well as a law that calls for a real independent monitor.

Among many reforms the Governor's ethics reform agenda would:

Require disclosure of clients doing business with the state that are represented by legislators before the state and disclosure of how much they get paid.

Require the creation of an independent body to provide oversight and enforcement of ethics rules because, as we have seen in the past, self-policing does not work.

Require lobbyists to disclose any business relationship with legislators in excess of $1,000.

Strip pensions from those public officials convicted of a felony related to the abuse of their official duties.

Marriage Equality:

Despite our state's proud tradition as the progressive capital of the nation, on the issue of marriage equality, New York has sadly lagged behind. While gay and lesbian New Yorkers can drive to Massachusetts or Connecticut to be married, such marriages are not permitted in New York. In the face of New York's failure to act and to lead, states like New Hampshire, Iowa, Vermont and the District of Columbia have all recognized the importance of marriage equality and now allow same-sex couples to marry.

Governor Cuomo has repeatedly said that it is time to for our state to retake our leading role in guaranteeing equal rights for all. This is about civil rights and equality. Denying marriage to all undermines the very dignity and legitimacy that our state routinely provides to other couples.

Barring marriage equality denies same-sex couples and their families over 1,000 federal and 700 state rights that are afforded to millions of New Yorkers. For instance, spouses have hospital visitation rights and can make medical decisions in the event of illness or disability. Employers offer spouses sick leave, bereavement leave as well as access to health insurance and pensions. Also, the law provides certain rights to a person's spouse regardless of whether or not a will exists. None of these rights exist for same-sex couples in the absence of marriage.

The Assembly has passed marriage equality legislation in previous legislative sessions but in 2009, the bill failed to pass the Senate.

Governor Cuomo has repeatedly indicated that for real reform to occur in New York, he must make his case directly to the people of the state. Explaining the issues and maintaining an open dialogue allows New Yorkers to form an opinion, organize, and make Albany act.

For more information about the People First tour, visit www.NYPeopleFirst.com.

###

Contact Information:
Governor's Press Office
NYC Press Office: 212.681.4640
Albany Press Office: 518.474.8418
press.office@exec.ny.gov

Albany, NY (May 11, 2011)

Empire State Development Corporation (ESDC) President and CEO Kenneth Adams today brought the "People First Campaign" to the Rochester Business Alliance, where he outlined Governor Cuomo's legislative priorities and told New Yorkers that their voices must be heard in order to get Albany to act on these key reforms.

Last week, Governor Cuomo announced that he and his senior staff would tour the state in order to speak directly to the people of New York about, among other issues, creating a property tax cap, cleaning up Albany by passing ethics reform and passing a marriage equality bill. Governor Cuomo said that all of these issues must be addressed during the current legislative session and asked New Yorkers to call their legislators and urge them to act.

"Kenneth Adams has traveled to Rochester to share our message of ethics reform, a property tax cap, and marriage equality," Governor Cuomo said. "We are speaking directly with New Yorkers because change happens when the people are active and engaged with their government. My team will be blanketing the state, bringing government to the people and working to get these important reforms accomplished during this legislative session."

The Governor's People First campaign focuses on three specific legislative priorities:

Property Tax Cap:

New Yorkers pay among the highest property taxes in the nation, forcing families to sell their homes and move out of state. Massive property tax increases also discourage businesses from investing and creating jobs. In the last decade, property taxes have increased a staggering 73 percent – that's twice the rate of inflation.

Governor Cuomo has proposed a comprehensive tax cap that would control property taxes. Under his plan:

Local school districts and governments could only raise property taxes each year by 2 percent or the rate of inflation, whichever is less.

All governments would be included under this plan, and few exemptions would be allowed.

Local communities and local voters would retain control, however, and could override the cap. For school boards it would require a 60 percent vote on the budget, and for non-school boards it would require a two-thirds vote of the responsible legislative body.

Ultimately, the property tax cap would give much-needed relief to New York taxpayers and encourage local governments and school districts to be more efficient and make the most of their resources.

Ethics Reform:

New York State government used to be a symbol of integrity and performance, but we have lost that standard. To clean up the government and restore trust with New Yorkers, we need to pass a new ethics law that mandates transparency and full disclosure as well as a law that calls for a real independent monitor.

Among many reforms the Governor's ethics reform agenda would:

Require disclosure of clients doing business with the state that are represented by legislators before the state and disclosure of how much they get paid. Require the creation of an independent body to provide oversight and enforcement of ethics rules because, as we have seen in the past, self-policing does not work.

Require lobbyists to disclose any business relationship with legislators in excess of $1,000.   

Strip pensions from those public officials convicted of a felony related to the abuse of their official duties.

Marriage Equality:

Despite our state's proud tradition as the progressive capital of the nation, on the issue of marriage equality, New York has sadly lagged behind. While gay and lesbian New Yorkers can drive to Massachusetts or Connecticut to be married, such marriages are not permitted in New York. In the face of New York's failure to act and to lead, states like New Hampshire, Iowa, Vermont and the District of Columbia have all recognized the importance of marriage equality and now allow same-sex couples to marry.

Governor Cuomo has repeatedly said that it is time to for our state to retake our leading role in guaranteeing equal rights for all. This is about civil rights and equality. Denying marriage to all undermines the very dignity and legitimacy that our state routinely provides to other couples.

Barring marriage equality denies same-sex couples and their families over 1,000 federal and 700 state rights that are afforded to millions of New Yorkers. For instance, spouses have hospital visitation rights and can make medical decisions in the event of illness or disability. Employers offer spouses sick leave, bereavement leave as well as access to health insurance and pensions. Also, the law provides certain rights to a person's spouse regardless of whether or not a will exists. None of these rights exist for same-sex couples in the absence of marriage.

The Assembly has passed marriage equality legislation in previous legislative sessions but in 2009, the bill failed to pass the Senate.

For more information about the People First tour, visit www.NYPeopleFirst.com.

 

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