Senator James Seward
State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I – Oneonta) issued the following statement on Thursday, April 14:
“In early February, I was diagnosed with bladder cancer by my physicians at Bassett Healthcare in Cooperstown. On Wednesday, I underwent successful surgery at Albany Medical Center where I will remain a patient for a few days. Continue reading
by Sen. James L. Seward
With the 2016 legislative session now underway, it is an ideal time to outline a few of my leading priorities.
These are issues that I hear about on a daily basis from those who live and work in my district and what I would call “The People’s Agenda.” Continue reading
by Senator James L. Seward
You may have seen the news recently in regard to an increase in the minimum wage for workers at certain fast food franchises in New York State.
While employees who appear ready to earn more are celebrating, there are a number of problems associated with the change that are cause for alarm.
First, we need to examine the process used to institute this minimum wage increase because it is a complete deviation from the normal practice. Continue reading
by Sen. James L. Seward
The governor recently presented his budget proposal for the 2015–2016 fiscal year. Now, the real work begins.
In a break from tradition, due to the recent passing of former Governor Mario Cuomo, the budget proposal was delivered in conjunction with the State of the State address.
The combination presentation was long on general themes, but short on details. Continue reading
Taxes are one of the items cited on a regular basis as a major problem for New York State. That’s why tax relief is one of my top priorities—and several new measures are set to take hold to help reduce the tax burden of hardworking New Yorkers and their families.
In the coming weeks, thousands of local families with children under the age of 17 will receive a $350 family tax relief check. Continue reading
Small businesses are among New York’s top employers, and to keep them on top it is crucial that state government partner with these job creators.
I am committed to advancing legislation that helps create an atmosphere conducive to job creation—cutting business taxes, lowering energy costs, and eliminating unnecessary government regulations. Continue reading
It is full steam ahead in Albany as work to complete an on-time state budget is fully underway.
While meeting the April 1 deadline is important, it is even more vital that the final product is fiscally responsible AND meets the needs of families, businesses, and community groups.
The senate budget resolution, which I helped craft, includes a number of key initiatives that will be valuable to our state’s future.
Among the highlights—property tax relief to combat the greatest expense families and business in New York face; education aid that will support our neediest schools; and job creation incentives which will help boost economic development. Continue reading