Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C-Batavia) has been warning New Yorkers for years that the cost of living in this state is out of control. A new Siena College Poll found that 53% of voters identified affordability as the most important issue facing New York, while 77% ranked it among the top two concerns facing the state. Despite a state budget that has grown to approximately $277 billion, voters continue to signal that the rising cost of living remains their primary concern.

“New Yorkers are telling Albany they cannot keep up with the cost of living,” said Hawley. “When a majority of voters identify affordability as the state's most important issue, lawmakers should be focused on lowering costs, reducing the tax burden and making it easier for families to build a future here in New York. The results of this poll make it clear that Albany must do more to address the financial challenges facing working families.”

Hawley will continue to advocate for policies aimed at reducing the financial burden on residents, including efforts to control government spending, lower energy costs and improve New York's economic competitiveness.