An article recently graced the pages of this publication in which the author questioned the constitutionality of Assembly Bill 1964. The legislation, which I sponsor, seeks to give local governments the option to provide a referendum on the question of...

More than a week into the month of March, the signs of spring are all around us. From St. Patrick’s Day parades to the return of baseball and, with a little luck, the year’s first glimpse of green grass, we are constantly reminded that spring has...

“I have been impressed with the urgency of doing. Knowing is not enough; we must apply. Being willing is not enough; we must do.” You don’t have to be a Renaissance man to appreciate Leonardo da Vinci’s advice. Whether presented with an artist’s...

Every summer, we celebrate the Fourth of July by spending time with our friends and families at parades, backyard barbeques and, possibly, watching fireworks. However, while these are all important parts of this summer tradition, it also is a day when...

The 2010-2011 State Budget is now more than 80 days late and yet only about 75% of it is finished, leaving $5.5 billion of the original $9.2 billion deficit left to be addressed. With education funding comprising most of what is left in the budget, the...

Memorial Day is an important time for us to reflect on the courage and sacrifice shown by our servicemen and women across the country. On this upcoming Memorial Day, Monday, May 31, I would encourage all New York State residents take a moment and join...

After a legislative leaders’ meeting held earlier this week, it became all too clear that even after being more than 50 days late, the Majority parties in both the Assembly and Senate are not concerned about passing the 2010-2011 State Budget. Even...

I am thrilled that our state leaders are finally listening to the people of our state and the rank-and-file legislators who represent them. It is a step forward that there is an agreement to rescind the plan to require new license plates. However, as...