EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
I am pleased to unveil this sweeping vision for
change and reform – ReNew New York. This plan
is a blueprint for reducing property taxes, creating
and retaining jobs, protecting families and neighborhoods,
fostering strong educational opportunities and improving
the overall quality of life for New Yorkers.
New York is at a crossroads: either state government
will continue its rate of unchecked taxing and spending
and drive more people away or the Legislature can
take the steps necessary to help the Empire State
grow and prosper.
I believe that substantially reducing the property
tax burden placed on homeowners and businesses is
essential to the growth and success of New York’s
economy. To achieve this goal, ReNew New York includes
the “New York State Property Taxpayers Protection
Act”, which places a cap on property taxes
to limit the amount a school district can hike tax
levies. This proposal also seeks to reduce property
taxes by reining in Medicaid costs, combining government
services and recovering the $4.5 billion in annual
Medicaid fraud.
For our economy to prosper, job creation and retention
are essential. ReNew New York includes incentives
to attract and retain small businesses and manufacturers.
It also includes measures to reduce the cost of
doing business in the state by cutting business
taxes, reducing energy costs and making health care
more affordable. My goal is to foster an environment
where businesses can regain their competitive edge.
My ReNew New York also includes common-sense legislation
aimed at longer prison sentences for repeat violent
offenders, combating gang violence, reinstating
the death penalty for cop killers and terrorists,
as well as strengthening homeland security. After
all, no family should be subject to danger.
I am committed to reforming government to make
it more transparent, effective and responsive to
the people. ReNew New York also includes proposals
to ensure that all New Yorkers have a fair opportunity
to receive a sound education that prepares them
for the future. Additionally, ReNew New York offers
measures to deliver quality, affordable health care
to every New Yorker.
I will advance the enclosed proposals throughout
the 2008 Legislative Session and look forward to
an era of real change.
Sincerely,
James D. Conte, Member of the Assembly
10th District – Suffolk & Nassau Counties
