Just ahead of the upcoming legislative session, State Sens. Steve Rhoads, Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, Anthony Palumbo, Jack Martins, Mario Mattera, Dean Murray and Alexis Weik hosted a roundtable discussion focused on addressing New York’s growing cost-of-living crisis.
The event was the latest in a statewide series of affordability roundtables led by Senate Republicans, as residents across New York continue to face rising expenses they say are driven by state policies from Albany. The discussion centered on financial pressures affecting families, including child care, housing, energy costs, utility bills and state mandates.
During the roundtable, the state senators met with residents and local stakeholders to hear firsthand accounts of how higher costs are affecting households and businesses. Participants also discussed potential solutions aimed at easing the financial burden on New Yorkers.
“Hardworking New Yorkers are being crushed by skyrocketing costs in every area of their lives: housing, energy, insurance, taxes - all the result of failed policies given to us from failed one-party rule in Albany,” Rhoads said. “This affordability crisis is driving residents and businesses out of our state in record numbers, and we cannot stand by while New York families feel they have no choice but to leave their homes and communities behind. Today’s roundtable made one thing unmistakably clear: New Yorkers need immediate, meaningful relief. Affordability is a punchline to Albany Democrats. We’re not laughing. Republicans are listening and fighting to restore common sense, rein in costs, and transform New York into a place where families not only survive, but thrive.”
Housing affordability was a key focus of the discussion, particularly on Long Island, where limited supply and high costs continue to challenge residents.
“Addressing Long Island’s housing crisis is a complex problem that requires bipartisan solutions,” said Gwen O’Shea, CEO and president of Community Development Long Island. “CDLI wants to leverage the collective will of government, community partners, and residents to create safe, affordable homes that Long Island families deserve.”
Local government officials also weighed in on the need for practical approaches to affordability. Brendan Finn, president of the Long Beach City Council, said the city has worked to curb rising taxes while keeping costs down for residents.
“We are proud to have Senator Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick and Senate Republicans fighting for us in Albany, and for bringing affordability issues to the forefront,” Finn said. “In Long Beach, our administration has fought hard to bring an end to the out-of-control tax hikes of the past. Keeping taxes stable and lowering costs for families is our priority. We need common sense, practical solutions that put our residents first. The issue of affordability in New York State is crucial.”
