Assemblyman Michael Fitzpatrick (R,C,I-Smithtown) today announced that he has been appointed to the Ways and Means Committee by Minority Leader Brian Kolb. Since his election to the Assembly, Fitzpatrick has been a staunch advocate for fiscal conservatism, which he says will prove crucial to reining in out-of-control state spending and transforming the state’s antiquated fiscal approach. E.J. McMahon, Director of the Empire Center for New York State Policy applauded the move, describing Fitzpatrick as a “budgetary watchdog.”

“I am honored, and would like to thank Leader Kolb for the appointment to the Ways and Means Committee,” said Fitzpatrick. “State government’s insatiable appetite for spending has exacerbated our current economic predicament. It’s time state leaders acknowledge the damage that unsustainable spending, outrageous taxation, and fiscal irresponsibility have had on our business community and New York’s fiscal health. Since I was elected, I have advocated fiscal restraint, and, as a member of the Ways and Means Committee, I intend to be a strong voice for reining in state debt, instilling financial discipline in the budgetary process, and in opposing powerful pressure groups.”

"Throughout his tenure in the state Assembly, Mike Fitzpatrick has been a strong and steadfast voice for New York taxpayers,” said E.J. McMahon, Director of the Empire Center for New York State Policy. “He's the kind of budgetary watchdog New York needs in these troubled times -- a natural choice for the Ways and Means Committee."

"Mike Fitzpatrick's appointment to the Ways and Means committee is a win for all New York taxpayers and those who recognize that the private sector economy is what creates jobs and opportunity in our state," said Larchmont Mayor and New Yorkers for Growth member Liz Feld.

Ways and Means is a powerful budgeting committee that Fitzpatrick believes will enable him to fight for controlled spending in the state. Fitzpatrick replaces newly elected Assembly Minority Leader Brian Kolb on the committee.

“Assemblyman Michael Fitzpatrick has a clear and consistent public record of fighting for fiscal responsibility, standing up for taxpayers and championing a better business climate. I have confidence in his continuing the proud tradition of our Conference having a strong voice and effective representation on the Assembly Ways and Means Committee, where he will keep leading the fight to advance real solutions that address New York's economic challenges,” said Assembly Minority Leader Brian M. Kolb (R,I,C-Canandaigua).