The 2016 Legislative Session is now underway, and it’s safe to say, there is no shortage of issues we have to tackle this year. Many constituents have contacted me with their questions, concerns, and issues they want resolved in 2016. An issue that seems to keep resurfacing is a pressing fear of executive power abuse, both nationally and statewide. Having an open dialogue with the people I represent is something I value, and I don’t take their concerns lightly. It’s time we address this serious issue and find a way to put a stop to it before it becomes the status-quo.

Just this week, President Obama utilized executive privilege and bypassed Congress to introduce his gun control proposals. Regardless of political party or stance on gun control, it is a tremendous disservice to the people to circumvent the legislative process. Making this decision unilaterally exemplifies dangerous executive overreach. If we let this be set as a precedent, we risk allowing it to happen with future presidents on countless other issues; that’s not a risk I’m willing to take.

Unfortunately, similar methods are being practiced by our governor on the state level. In an effort to sidestep the state legislature last year, Gov. Cuomo empaneled a Wage Board to raise the minimum wage to $15 an hour for fast-food workers. No matter where you stand on a minimum wage increase, it’s concerning that the governor set this rate unilaterally as opposed to getting it done legislatively. This, much like President Obama’s gun restriction proposals, sets a terrible precedent. Raising the wage should be accomplished through the legislative process just like other major initiatives so elected officials who represent all areas of the state have an opportunity to weigh in, debate, and vote on the issue.

What it comes down to is this: the legislative process is in place for a reason. Our constitution requires compromise and negotiation between the executive and legislative branches. We have much to accomplish this session, and I hope we can work together for the people that elected us, the way our founding fathers intended.

For more information on this or any other state issue, please call me at 493-3909 or email me at blankenbushk@assembly.state.ny.us to share your ideas.