Assemblyman David G. McDonough (R,C,I-Merrick) is supporting legislation, the ‘Property Taxpayers Protection Act,’ to reduce the tax burden on homeowners and businesses by controlling spending and capping tax levy increases.

“It is time for the majority in the Assembly and the governor to act,” said McDonough. “Taxes are forcing homeowners and businesses to flee New York for more affordable states and this has to stop.”

McDonough’s Property Taxpayers Protection Act would:

• Prevent school tax levies from increasing by more than 4 percent annually or the rate of inflation, whichever is lower;
• Stop any unfunded state mandates that cost more than $10,000 annually or $1 million statewide;
• Reduce county Medicaid costs through a state takeover of the cost of optional services;
• Enable local governments to battle Medicaid fraud through grants for investigation software;
• Encourage consolidation of local government services; and
• Encourage local option insurance pooling.

“Massachusetts, which had the highest property taxes in the nation, passed similar legislation which lowered their rank to 32nd. We must act now,” McDonough said.

To join with Assemblyman McDonough in calling for this legislation, taxpayers can download the petition by visiting the Cap Property Taxes Now Web site or by replying directly to Assemblyman McDonough at mcdonod@assembly.state.ny.us or by calling 516-731-8830.