A letter to the editor from Assemblyman Chad Lupinacci (R,C,I-South Huntington)
(Long Island, NY) After spending several weeks traveling the district, I’ve spoken to many constituents, teachers and business owners who asked me what my outlook was for the upcoming 2016 legislative session. One word comes to mind: optimistic.
I’m optimistic because I believe several much-needed reforms will come to fruition in the New Year.
Last year, the leaders of the New York State Assembly and Senate were arrested and later convicted on corruption charges, leaving the Legislature in disarray for months. To ensure history does not repeat itself, we must start this year by adopting measures designed to increase accountability and rid the Capitol of corrupt politicians who would rather line their pockets with taxpayer dollars. It is shameful that taxpayers are burdened with funding the pensions of those who have blatantly abused their power. With pressure coming from across the state, legislative leaders will have no choice but to enact meaningful reforms.
Reform in 2016 does not end with ethics. Last year, thousands of parents stood up to Governor Andrew Cuomo and opted their children out of controversial, stressful Common Core state exams. Because of tireless efforts by teachers and parents calling for Common Core reform, the Governor created a Common Core Task Force, tasked with providing recommendations for modifying the curriculum. It’s safe to say that the voices of teachers and parents are finally starting to be heard. The task force’s recommendations include implementing a transition period for new academic standards through 2019-20 and removing student test scores from teacher evaluations. I’m looking forward to seeing the Governor acknowledge these recommendations so we can get our state’s education system on a better track.
As a college professor and the Ranking Minority Member on the Higher Education Committee, making tuition more affordable and creating new opportunities for New York students to earn a college degree is a top priority. I’ve met so many brilliant students during my years teaching, but too many aspiring students still lack the proper tools and resources to pursue higher education. That needs to change. In the coming weeks, I’ll be introducing new legislation that will expand opportunities for college students.
A personal goal of mine for 2016 will be to increase awareness for organ donations. Registering to become an organ donor is simple, and it saves lives. However, only 22 percent of adults in New York are registered organ donors – compared to the national average of 48 percent. I will be urging my Assembly colleagues to pass legislation that will generate more awareness for organ donations and transplants.
As your representative, it is my duty to be your voice in Albany. I’m very fortunate to have received such strong feedback in recent weeks. You deserve honest lawmakers, your children deserve a fair curriculum in the classroom, and our college students deserve more opportunities. I look forward to returning to Albany and making these changes a reality.
