Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R, I, C – Batavia) has been appointed to the prestigious Assembly Rules Committee. This special committee is chaired by Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver and has among its members some of the most powerful Assembly members from both parties, including Assembly Minority Leader James N. Tedisco and Assembly Minority Leader Pro-Tempore Brian Kolb.

“I am very honored that Leader Tedisco has appointed me to this important committee. I look forward to returning to Albany and hope that through this committee I will be able to bring to the floor legislation that matters to New Yorkers most – such as reducing the overwhelming burden that property taxes create for our seniors, businesses, and young people,” said Hawley.

“I am pleased to appoint Steve Hawley to the Assembly Rules Committee,” said Assembly Minority Leader James Tedisco (R, C, I-Schenectady-Saratoga). “Since his election, he has been a strong advocate for the people of Western New York. Now Steve can bring his dedication to public service and his fresh ideas to this powerful committee. All New Yorkers will benefit from his influence.”

The special meaning of being on the Assembly Rules Committee comes from the committee’s power in having the authority to bring bills before the entire Assembly for debate or to be voted on. iThe Rules Committee can expedite legislative action on bills and determines when, if at all, a bill comes before the entire house. The Rules Committee is often considered the most important committee in any legislature as well as in the United States House of Representatives.

Additionally, Hawley serves as the Ranking minority member on the Assembly Corporations, Authorities, and Commissions Committee. He also remains a member of many other Assembly Committees, including the Agriculture Committee, Committee on Health, Racing and Wagering Committee, and the Assembly Veterans Affairs Committee.