Pictured, State Senator Tom Libous is sworn in recently by New York State’s Chief Judge Jonathan Lippman. (Photo credit: Office of Senator Tom Libous)
Last Wednesday, I was sworn in to serve another term in the State Senate and I’m ready to get to work in Albany for the people I represent.
Here are my priorities for the new Legislative Session:
Mental Health and Developmental Disability Services: I’m still fighting for jobs and services at both the Greater Binghamton Health Center and the Broome Developmental Center. These facilities and the services they provide are vital to families in our community. They need to be protected.
Economic Growth and Opportunity: We needed authorization to re-apply for a gaming license for the true Southern Tier. The NYS Gaming Commission recently agreed to accept applications for a fourth license for the region. That’s encouraging news, our community deserves this opportunity and we need the jobs.
A new casino is a start, but it isn’t enough. Our area is hurting for growth and opportunity. We need more incentives to attract new businesses, jobs and careers to the Southern Tier.
Binghamton University: The new BU School of Pharmacy could be a catalyst for new jobs and revitalization in Johnson City. I’ll work with the Governor and my colleagues in Albany to make sure this project keeps moving forward. The University is an asset in our community and I believe there’s more untapped economic potential.
Budget and Taxes: We need to pass the State’s fifth consecutive on-time budget. We need to stay under our self-imposed 2 percent spending cap and the Budget needs to include no new taxes.
I’d also like to accelerate tax cuts so middle class taxpayers can get relief as quickly as possible.
Police Safety: The recent deaths of two New York Police Department officers raised serious safety concerns for those charged with keeping us safe. Police officers have a difficult and dangerous job to do; I’ll keep working with our local officials to provide the support and resources police need to help protect themselves and our community.
