Assemblyman Dave McDonough (R,C,I-Merrick) today responded positively to Governor Andrew Cuomo’s State of the State address, but cautioned that there is still much work to be done as the 2012 legislative session begins. While pleased to hear the Governor address the need to grow jobs and improve New York State’s economy, McDonough insisted that lawmakers must redouble their efforts to reduce state spending, cut job-killing red tape which hampers job growth, and eliminate unfunded mandates which threaten to bust the new property tax cap.

“In 2012, lawmakers should have three priorities: reduce state spending, get state government out of the way of job creators, and eliminate unfunded mandates that suffocate local governments and schools,” said McDonough. “The state Legislature did indeed work together to accomplish a great deal in 2011. With the start of a new year and new session, I agree with Governor Cuomo that lawmakers must continue to build on those accomplishments. Working on my three top priorities will help to ensure a successful session for taxpayers, small businesses, and our schools.

“Albany has a responsibility to lend a hand to the small-business community. The Minority Conference and I will continue to push for our jobs program, which focuses on providing tax cuts for small businesses while emphasizing job creation and retention. Due to the current economic uncertainty, small-business owners across our state have not been hiring new employees. Albany has a responsibility to quell that fear and get our state back on track.

“Governor Cuomo’s commitment to continue to work across party lines signals a seriousness in addressing a number of critical issues facing New York. My hope is that the Governor will follow up on that and understand that while there are no easy decisions during these difficult times, choices must be made now to create a more fiscally responsible New York.”