Friday Morning Brief Jan 10, 2025

Jan 9

Written By Michael Avella

Happy New Year from the D&A team!

Member Spotlight

Assemblyman Michael Reilly

Assemblyman Michael Reilly joins us to discuss his Staten Island-based district, background, priorities, and experiences in the Assembly. Before becoming an Assemblymember, he had already dedicated his life to public service by first enlisting in the US Army Reserves and then serving as a police officer in the NYPD. He also served his community as a volunteer member of Community Education Council 31. Currently, he serves on various committees, including on Codes, Education, Rules, and Higher Education.

What district do you represent? Can you describe it for those that have never been there?
I represent the 62ndAssembly District, which is known as the South Shore of Staten Island,a vibrant, rich in history area. A few years back, while out for my walks, I started taking pictures of street signs and other interesting areas in the district. I researched where the names possibly came from. As somewhat of a history buff, the information I found was very interesting. I thought it would be fun to share the information with others. So, I started posting a weekly highlight on Facebook.
#AroundThe62AD #StatenIsland

Ever wonder how a street, area or building was named? Well, I have too. So, I will be highlighting some of the gems we have around the 62nd Assembly District. Click on the photos in this album to read about some of the locations and structures across the district:Facebook

The district is home to Conference House Park, which played a key role during theAmerican Revolutionary War, serving as a strategic location for British troops.Conference House Parkin Tottenville hosted theStaten Island Peace Conference of 1776, where Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, and Edward Rutledge met with British officials in an attempt to prevent the war. The district is also home to Sandy Ground, the oldest continues free black settlement in the United States.

What music do you like? Any favorite bands/artists?
I enjoy several different types of bands. They include, The Eagles, Credence Clearwater Revival, Metallica, Guns N Roses, Kenny Chesney, Zach Brown, Brantley Gilbert, Walker Hayes, Jacob Bryant, Morgan Wallen and Zach Bryan

What about sports? Any favorite NY sports team?
I consider myself a Mets, Giants, Rangers and Knicks fan, but honestly my interest in sports has diminished since I was younger. I always liked playing more than watching.

Favorite food? Any restaurant recommendations that are in your district?
My wife and I are adventurous eaters. We like to try new types of food. There are many places in the district that are sure to satisfy any visitor’s pallet.

What was your occupation before running for office? Did it lead you to run for the Assembly?
From a young age, around 5 years, I dreamed of becoming a New York City Police Officer. After returning from Army Training, that dream became a reality when I was hired by theNYPDonSeptember 1, 1993, at the age of 20. As the first police officer in my family, I was proud to serve my city and community. I advanced through the ranks, earning promotions toSergeantin2000andLieutenantin2004. Unfortunately, my career with the NYPD was cut short in2006due to an injury sustained in the line of duty. Leaving the department was a difficult transition, as my passion had always been serving the community through law enforcement.

After feeling a void, I turned to volunteering at my children’s school,PS 55 in Eltingville. I launched aStop and Dropprogram, partnering with school staff to help students safely exit their cars during morning drop-offs. This initiative not only improved traffic flow but also enhanced safety. To bring smiles to students and parents, I often dressed in costumes—turning a routine drop-off into a fun and memorable moment.

In2009, someone mentioned an opening on theCommunity Education Council for District 31 (School Board). Motivated by my desire to continue serving the community, I ran for a seat and was elected to atwo-year term. This role allowed me to advocate forstudents, families, teachers, and schools, including traveling toAlbanyto speak withNew York State legislators, my first real exposure to the world of government and politics. I proudly served onCEC 31for10 years, includingfour years as Presidentof the Council.

In2018, I was approached about running for theNew York State Assemblyin the62nd District, as then - AssemblymanRon Castorinaprepared to run for judge. With the full support of my wife, Mary, I entered the race. Since then, I’ve been honored to bereelected three timesby the incredible people of the district I proudly represent.

If you had told me18 years ago, after retiring from the NYPD, that I would go on tovolunteer at my kids’ school, become aschool board president, and later serve as aState Assemblyman, I wouldn’t have believed it. Life’s journey is anything but predictable, but it’s often the unexpected turns that lead to the most rewarding destinations.

What issues do you think are impacting your district the most?
I believe my constituents are concerned with the issues that impact the overall, NYC region as well as our local Staten Island communities.

Public Safety; holding those who commit crimes accountable, Transportation; stopping the congestion pricing scheme, continuing to push to expedite the widening or replacement of the Outerbridge Crossing (Port Authority Acts on Reilly-Lanza Legislation to Study Alignment of Aging Outerbridge Crossing with $8.3 Million Commitment | Mike Reilly for State Assembly) Education; the most recent is services for our students with special needs who do not attend NYC Public Schools. I have advocated along with my colleagues and families to restore the services. We have begun to see some headway.

Aside from local issues impacting your district, are there any statewide issues you want to focus on for the 2025 legislative session?
Public Safety, specifically fixing bail reform to allow judges the discretion to order pre-trial detention based on a defendant’s dangerousness to the community.

Transportation, focus on our lawsuit to stop the cash grab scheme known as congestion pricing. Push to expedite the Port Authority’s plan to widen or replace the Outerbridge.

What advice would you give to young folks that want to be more involved in politics?
Here is something that I share when speaking with our young future leaders.

Service, Commitment and Leadership are my guiding pillars.

Service is the act of selflessly giving your time, talents, and resources to others. It is the understanding that our lives are not solely about our own success, but also about uplifting those who need it most. Service teaches us empathy, compassion, and the importance of being a part of something greater than ourselves.

Commitment is the unwavering dedication to a cause or a goal. It is the willingness to stay the course, even when faced with challenges or setbacks. Commitment fuels perseverance and resilience, enabling us to overcome obstacles and achieve the extraordinary.

Leadership is not about holding a position of authority; it is about inspiring others through your actions and making a positive impact. Leadership starts with leading yourself, setting high standards, embracing responsibility, and acting with integrity. It extends to leading by example, uplifting and empowering those around you, and creating a positive change in your community. Leadership is not about being the best, it's about bringing out the best in others.

Are you a public official or staffer that would like to be featured in our spotlight? If so, reach out to your favorite D&A team member or contact us at team@dickinsonavella.com to set up an interview!

Leaders of the Legislature Commit to Addressing Affordability in 2025 Session

In their opening remarks of the 2025 legislative session, Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins (who just became the longest-serving Democratic Senate Majority Leader, 1st woman, and 1st Black woman in the Majority Leader position) and Speaker Carl Heastie pledged to address affordability for the next six month.

“We know the challenges ahead require maintaining and strengthening our resolve to make New York more affordable,” said Stewart-Cousins in her opening speech. “One thing we keep hearing over and over again is that the cost of living remains too high,” Heastie said in his separate opening speech. While both Stewart-Cousins and Heastie reiterated that the Legislature has always focused on addressing affordability, both recognized that voters’ top issue in the last election was affordability.

Stewart-Cousins mentioned that the Senate would move towards achieving universal childcare, explaining, “Expanding universal pre-kindergarten” and “Taking it one step closer by moving toward universal childcare because working parents deserve affordable, high-quality care for their children.” In the Assembly, Heastie voiced his support for universal free school meals and eliminating state income taxes for low-income families – a proposal NYC Mayor Eric Adams is expected to advocate for in Albany.

Republican leaders also agreed with Stewart-Cousins and Heastie on their commitment to address affordability. Republican Assembly Leader Will Barclay explained, “We have many differences of opinions on how exactly to lower the cost of living, but I will say, this needs to be the goal of every member in the Legislature to lower that cost.” Republican Senate Leader Rob Ortt also agreed but mentioned that the Legislature could do more. “We need a broader… comprehensive attack on the affordability issue” including “reducing spending and cutting taxes.”

The leaders of the Legislature’s pledge to address affordability mirrors Hochul’s “Affordability Agenda,” which will be revealed in her 2025 State of the State. So far, Hochul has also already released a few of her proposals before January 14th.

Don Pollard/Office of Governor Kathy Hochul

EXECUTIVE UPDATES

Last Sunday, Hochul announced that she would propose a major investment in rail services in the Hudson Valley as part of her 2025 State of the State. Under the investment, rail infrastructure would be upgraded to increase train capacity, reduce train delays, cut travel times to 15 minutes, and reduce the Metro-North travel time between NYC and Poughkeepsie to less than 90 minutes. The announcement builds upon Hochul’s commitment to improve public transit in suburban areas in the NYC Metro Area and builds upon Hochul’s support for the MTA Capital Budget, which includes upgrading Metro-North rail lines that connect to the Hudson Valley.

On Monday, Hochul announced that she would propose expanding the state’s Child Tax Credit as her second proposal for the 2025 State of the State. Hochul’s proposed expansion would expand the Child Tax Credit to $1,000 per child for families with a child under the age of four and up to $500 per child from the age of four through sixteen. It is expected that 1.6 million families with a household income up to $110,000 will benefit from the proposed expansion. Currently, the Child Tax Credit provides up to $330 per child. The proposed expansion supports Hochul’s commitment to addressing the affordability crisis, which is expected to be a major issue in this year’s legislative session. “From groceries to strollers to kids’ clothes, the cost of living and raising a family is still too damn high,” explained Hochul.

Additionally on Tuesday, Hochul announced that she would propose a $110 million Child Care Construction Fund to expand the number of childcare facilities in the state, which would be her third proposal for the 2025 State of the State. The Child Care Construction Fund would address childcare deserts by building new childcare facilities and repairing existing sites. Alongside the Fund, Hochul will also propose to establish a “substitute pool” to expand the childcare workforce and launch a Coalition for Child Care to increase collaboration between the state, business leaders, labor leaders, service providers, and tax experts to build a path for achieving universal childcare in the state. The announcement would build upon Hochul’s commitment to expanding access to childcare in the state, including a $7 billion investment in the state’s childcare infrastructure as part of the FY2023 Enacted Budget.

On Wednesday, Hochul announced the availability of $100 million in state funding for expanding the use of zero-emission transit vehicles. Non-MTA transit authorities can apply through the Zero-Emission Transit Transition Program until April 5th. The program would allow non-MTA transit authorities to acquire new zero-emission buses and construct the necessary facilities and infrastructure to support the new buses. The recent funding builds upon the state’s CLCPA goal of transitioning into a green new renewable energy. “Transportation is an important front in our battle against climate change, and we must explore every avenue to reduce greenhouse emissions from this vital sector,” explained Hochul

Yesterday, Hochul announced new housing initiatives as her fourth proposal for the 2025 State of the State. Under her initiatives, Hochul proposes to:

Disincentivize large investment entities from buying single- and two-family homes and requiring a 75-day waiting period for large investment entities to make an offer for single-and two-family homes
Reduce deductions for investment entities owning single- and two-family homes
$50 million in state funding for supporting incentives to build starter homes
$50 million in state funding for first-time homeowners
Affordable homebuyer property tax incentive at local opt-in for certain homes
New policies to combat discriminatory appraisal practices

The new housing initiatives would build upon Hochul’s previous actions, including FY2025 Enacted Budget’s 485-x housing tax incentives and the $25 billion Housing Plan. “Last year, we passed the most transformative plan in half a century to build more housing and lower family costs. But shadowy private equity giants are buying up the housing supply in communities across New York,” explained Hochul.

LEGISLATIVE UPDATES

Next week, the Legislature is scheduled to be in session on Monday to Wednesday
The State of the State is scheduled to be on Tuesday, January 14th

Legislature Releases Committee Assignments for 2025-2026 Legislative Session

This week, the Senate and Assembly released their committee assignments for the 2025-2026 legislative sessions. In the Senate, some chairs were shuffled, including the following:

Jamaal Bailey was named the Chair of Insurance (Senator Neil Breslin retired at the end of last year)
Rachel May was named the Chair of Consumer Protection after Kevin Thomas left the Senate at the end of last year
Newly elected Senator Pat Fahy will take over then-Senator and now-Congressman John Mannion’s Disability Committee
Newly elected Senator Siela Bynoe was named Chair of Libraries after then-Senator Iwen Chu lost her reelection to Steve Chan (the first Republican of Asian descent to be elected to the Senate)
Zellnor Myrie will take over as Chair of the Codes committee (vacated by Bailey)
Kristen Gonzalez will take over as Chair of the Elections Committee (Vacated by Myrie) and will continue to Chair the Internet & Technology Committee

In the Assembly, Assemblymember Gary Pretlow was officially confirmed to lead the Ways and Means Committee, leaving his former chairpersonship at the Racing and Wagering Committee. Various leadership changes were made as well, including Pam Hunter as Speaker Pro Tem (previously held by the retired Jeff Aubry).

Some other committee chairs that moved of note:

Carrie Woerner ---> Racing and Wagering
Jo Anne Simon ---> Mental Health after then-Assemblymember Aileen Gunther retired at the end of last year
Alicia Hyndman ---> Higher Education, which now-Senator Pat Fahy led
Ed Braunstein ---> Corporations, Authorities and Commissions
Pat Burke ---> Cities
Clyde Vanel ---> Banks
Billy Jones ---> Local Governments
Ron Kim ---> Tourism
Steve Stern ---> Veterans

Mike Groll/Office of Governor Kathy Hochul

Chapter Amendments Awaiting Hochul's Signatures

With the 2025 legislative session starting on Wednesday, more than 2,000 bills have already been introduced. While most are reintroductions, various chapter amendments for bills signed into law were also introduced. Some notable chapter amendments are:

Climate Change Superfund Act: the chapter amendment would limit the analysis of a corporation’s carbon emissions to only extracting and refining fossil fuels
LOADinG Act: the chapter amendment would eliminate the original requirement for state agencies to conduct a bias impact assessment for the use of AI while requiring state agencies to publicly disclose information about their use of AI on their websites
Short-Term Rental: the chapter amendment would replace the original statewide registry for short-term rentals with an opt-out county-level registry system
MENA Law: the chapter amendment would add more ethnic groups to exclude from being recorded as “white” by state agencies that collect demographic data and require state agencies to publicly disclose their progress if they cannot meet the law’s deadline
Fashion Workers Act: the chapter amendment explicitly defines management companies’ requirements and strengthens models’ rights and enforcement

Aung Hset/D&A

Senate Republicans Call for MTA Chair and CEO to Resign

After implementing Congestion Pricing and amidst high-profile crimes on MTA trains, Republican Senators rallied on the first day of session to call on MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber to resign. The Senators also criticize Hochul for her support of Lieber. “We have a deception problem…on the part of the Governor [and] Janno Lieber, who does not understand, who does not want to understand, who does not care about what it is commuters want and need: affordability and safety,” said Senator Steven Rhoads.

However, the MTA spokesperson calls the Senators as “out-of-touch” due to the recent infrastructure upgrades undertaken by the MTA. The rally comes after Heastie and Stewart-Cousins rejected the MTA’s 2025-2029 Capital Plan due to a $33 billion funding shortfall in the Plan. However, Heastie explained earlier this week that “raising revenue will absolutely be on the table” for the MTA.

Aung Hset/D&A

Lawmakers Rally for Increased Protections for Immigrants

In another rally in anticipation of the incoming Trump administration, Democratic lawmakers joined advocates in rallying for new legislative protections against Trump’s proposed deportation plans. In total, lawmakers and advocates were rallying for:

New York for All Act: would prohibit state and local law enforcements from working with ICE and CBP
Dignity Not Detention Act: would prohibit the state from housing detainees in immigration detention facilities
Access to Representation Act: would create a right to counsel in immigration courts
Clemency Justice Act: would require the Governor to publicly publish clemency reports and ease the restrictions on clemency application process

“We have presented a list of priorities that we think will help do that and really draw the line in the sand of what New York stands for,” explained Assemblymember Karines Reyes, who sponsors the New York for All Act and Dignity Not Detention Act. “Our communities are being attacked and torn apart simply because of our immigration status,” added Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas.

Hochul and Heastie Voice Support for the Repeal of the Federal SALT Cap

Earlier this week, Hochul called on the state’s Republican congressional delegation to repeal the SALT cap before Trump’s scheduled meeting with the delegation."This cap has cost New Yorkers as much as $12 billion every year since it took effect in 2018, robbing middle-class families of their hard-earned money," said Hochul. During his opening remarks, Heastie also voiced his support for repealing the SALT cap, explaining, “We must double down on our effort to work with our federal partners to finally repeal the SALT cap, so families are not taxed twice over.” The support for repealing the SALT cap comes as budget negotiations are set to begin after the State of the State and Joint Legislative Budget Hearings.

OTHER UPDATES

Mayor Eric Adams' 2025 State of the City

At Apollo Theater in Harlem, NYC Mayor Eric Adams laid out his agenda for NYC at his annual State of the City address. While acknowledging his and his ex-advisors’ corruption charges and trials, Adams reiterated his position to not step down as mayor. “There were some who said step down. I said no, I’m going to step up,” said Adams. For his 2025 agenda, Adams explained that he would focus on affordability and public safety. “New Yorkers are anxious about the future. Despite all we have accomplished, I won’t stand here and tell you that our work is complete,” explained Adams.

Also notably, Adams announced a new “City of Yes for Families” to build upon his previous “City of Yes” Housing Policy. Under the new “City of Yes for Families.” Adams plans to build 800 new units of housing for low-income families. Adams explained that the new housing policy would “change [how] we build across the five boroughs” and “keep NYC “a city for families.”

Court of Appeals Reject Trump's Motion to Dismiss Sentencing

Yesterday, the Court of Appeals declined to delay the sentencing of President-elect Donald Trump for his last year’s conviction on 34 charges of falsifying business records related to the hush money trial in a Manhattan court. With the decline of the Court of Appeal, Trump is scheduled to appear in court in person or virtually in Manhattan in front of Judge Juan Merchan. Judge Merchan has indicated that he is leaning toward unconditional discharge during Trump’s sentencing. However, Trump has asked the US Supreme Court to call off Friday’s sentencing, arguing that the sentencing will disrupt Trump’s presidential transition.

Trump Threatens to Seize the Panama Canal, Canada, and Greenland

Earlier this week, Trump indicated that he would seek to seize the Panama Canal and Greenland, and economically pressure Canada to join the US as the 51st state. On seizing the Panama Canal and Greenland, Trump did not rule out using the military with the Trump transition team’s spokesperson explaining that Trump was calling “legitimate national security and economic concerns.” Some observers note that the Trump’s threat to seizing or annexing Panama Canal, Greenland, and Canada is improbable as Greenland, through Denmark, and Canada are part of US-led NATO alliance.

Read Past Issues of the Brief

Featured