Friday Morning Brief October 5, 2024

Oct 4

Written By Michael Avella

Please note that for the summer, the Morning Brief will be sent out on a bi-weekly basis

Member Spotlight

Senator Robert Jackson

Senator Robert Jackson joined us to discuss his Northern Manhattan and Northwest Bronx-based district, priorities, and experiences in the Legislature. Before becoming a Senator in 2019, he served on the NYC Council for twelve years, championing on behalf of small businesses, criminal justice, and equality. He also co-founded the Campaign for Fiscal Equity in 1993 to protect the constitutional right to a sound basic education for all public school students in the state. Currently, he is the Chair of Civil Service and Pensions and a member of various committees, such as on Education, Labor, Cities 1, and New York City Education.

What district do you represent?
I proudly represent the 31st Senate District, covering Northern Manhattan, including Inwood and Washington Heights, as well as Northwest Bronx neighborhoods such as Morris Heights, University Heights, Marble Hill, Kingsbridge Heights, Kingsbridge, and parts of Riverdale.

Can you describe it for those that have never been there? What do you like the most about your district?
My Senate District, the 31st, has about 339,000 constituents, predominantly Latino, alongside Black, White, and Asian communities. It's a working-class, immigrant district where families work tirelessly to support their loved ones here and abroad, while prioritizing their children’s education and safety.

What was your occupation before running for office? Did it lead you to run for office?
After graduating from college, I spent five years as an Unemployment Insurance Investigator at the New York State Department of Labor. I then joined the New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF), a statewide union representing 50,000 Professional, Scientific, and Technical employees. Over my 20 years with PEF, I advanced from Field Representative to Statewide Labor/Management Coordinator, and eventually to Downstate Director of Field Services.

My two decades with PEF and my experience in state government have equipped me with strong skills in labor relations and public service. Additionally, I dedicated 15 years to serving five terms on the District 6 school board in Northern Manhattan.

What kind of music do you like - any favorite bands/artists?
I’m drawn to the soulful rhythms of R&B classics. There’s something timeless about the way Jimi Hendrix blends electric mastery with deep emotion, and Santana's guitar transports you to another world. And of course, The Temptations—those harmonies are pure magic, forever uplifting and unforgettable.

How about sports - any favorite NY sports team or any favorite sports/activities to play?
New York Yankees! I played college basketball at SUNY New Paltz. These days, I'm preparing for the NYC Marathon, where I'll be a guide for my brother-in-law, who is a blind runner.

Favorite foods? Any favorite places to eat in your district?
My wife's home-cooked meals are my favorite, hands down! When I eat out, I enjoy Chinese food—especially chicken with mixed vegetables and egg drop soup with bean sprouts.

What do you like to do in your free time?
What free time! In the rare moments I have free time, my wife and I enjoy visiting family in Virginia, New Jersey, and Connecticut. It’s a wonderful way to connect and unwind for me!

As the Chair of Civil Service and Pensions, what issues do you see arising in 2025?
As Chair of Civil Service and Pensions, I foresee significant reforms in 2025 aimed at enhancing the fairness and sustainability of our public retirement systems. I am dedicated to advancing legislation that will ensure more equitable treatment for our public employees.

Firstly, I propose bill S6864, which will cap employee contributions to public retirement plans at 3% of salary after 10 years of membership. Additionally, bill S8757 aims to restructure Tier 6 contribution rates into three escalating bands rather than five, substantially reducing the financial burden on our employees and increasing their take-home pay without affecting their retirement benefits.

Another critical reform is outlined in bill S6174, which amends the Tier 6 pension plan to provide a pension equal to 40% of the final average salary after twenty years of service, an increase from the current 35%. Furthermore, it seeks to lower the retirement eligibility age from 63 (Tier 6) or 62 (Tier 5) to 55 for employees with 30 or more years of service. This adjustment will align Tier 6 more closely with other tiers, enabling our public employees to retire earlier and with greater financial security.

This effort extends beyond merely correcting a flawed system—it is a commitment to ensuring our public employees receive the benefits they have rightfully earned. These changes underscore our dedication to maintaining a motivated, equitable, and effective workforce.

I want to reaffirm: "Tier 6 Sucks!"

What are/is your proudest legislative achievement(s)?
Campaign for Fiscal Equity vs. New York State & Tier 6 Reform.

After 13 years of relentless fighting, we secured a landmark victory in our lawsuit against New York State. The highest court upheld our argument that our children lack the necessary resources to access a sound basic education, the fundamental entitlement in New York State. Additionally, we are committed to enhancing pension benefits for New York State employees. As Chair of the Civil Service and Pensions Committee, I advocate for improved retirement benefits, ensuring that public employees can enjoy their lives without the burden of seeking additional work.

What are your top priorities for your district in particular? Any other priorities for 2025?
Safety and security in our communities, access to stable jobs with livable wages, and affordable housing free from violations are essential for improving lives. Additionally, ensuring quality childcare and education, along with comprehensive healthcare, will create a healthier, more prosperous future for everyone in my district and across the State. These priorities are not just goals; they are necessities that will enhance the well-being of our communities.

What advice would you give to young folks getting into politics?
Engage actively in your local community by joining your NYC Community Board, a political club, or a parents' association if you have children in school. Additionally, consider becoming involved with your tenants' association. By starting at the grassroots level, you can work your way up and truly represent the voices of your community. Take pride in the positive changes you help create through your service.

Any last comments you want to mention?
Work hard, embrace every opportunity to learn, and take pride in the efforts you make to improve the lives of those you serve. Remember, solidarity and unity are essential for fostering healthier communities.

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!

EXECUTIVE UPDATES

Last week, Hochul announced a new statewide partnership with 30 regional organizations and a private firm to strengthen the Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program, which provides homecare services to about 250,000 individuals. The transition for the CDPAP into a new statewide partnership will take effect by mid-2025 and was laid out in the 2025 Enacted Budget. It is intended to streamline the program to improve oversight, reduce the potential for fraud, and save costs. To help ease the transition, CDPAP will undergo a process focusing on ensuring communication, dialogue, and support for CDPAP home care users and caregivers. “Our plan will deliver a stronger CDPAP and leverage a diverse, statewide partnership to ensure the high-quality, personalized care that New Yorkers need,” explained Hochul.

During Climate Week NYC, Hochul announced $33 million to farms throughout the state through the Climate Resilient Farming Grant program. The funding comprises $16.14 million in state funding from the 2025 Enacted Budget and $17 million in federal funding. The funding aims to help award 70 agriculture projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, protect water, ensure soil health, and increase on-farm resiliency to adverse climate events. Under the Climate Resilient Farming Grant program, 580 farms could implement changes to reduce their greenhouse gas footprint. The program and funding support the state’s transition into a renewable green energy economy and help reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 40% by 2030 and 85% by 2050 from 1990 levels as set by the CLCPA.

Late last week, Hochul announced that the state has disbursed nearly $90 million in grant money to various municipalities throughout the state to upgrade their drinking water infrastructure. The funding is targeted towards removing and replacing lead service waters. The state funding comes in conjunction with the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which is providing $1 million to provide engineering and technical assistance. This latest funding supports the state’s commitment to improve municipal water infrastructure and build upon the $2.2 billion in financial aid for water infrastructure projects through the 2024 Fiscal Year and the 2025 Enacted Budget’s allocation of $500 million for clean water infrastructure.

Earlier this week, Hochul joined Queens Borough President Donovan Richards and Congressman Greg Meeks in marking a construction milestone at JFK International Airport. The milestone was the completion of exterior construction for the first phase of a new 1.2 million-square-foot Terminal 6, intended to ease congestion and increase traffic capacity to support more customers and flights. The $4.2 billion Terminal 6 is expected to finish its first phase in 2026, and the second phase, which includes the construction of five additional gates, will be completed in 2028. Overall, Terminal 6 is expected to create 4,000 jobs and increase the economic output of JFK. The construction of Terminal 6 was part of the 2017 plan to revitalize JFK Airport, which includes rebuilding the airport’s infrastructure, redevelopments of $9.5 billion Terminal One and $4.2 billion Terminal 6, $1.5 billion expansion of Terminal 4, and a $400 million expansion of Terminal 8

On Thursday, Hochul announced that more than $24 million has been awarded to 26 clean energy innovation contracts. The awarded projects will also join NYSERDA’s Innovation Program portfolio that advances long duration energy storage, clean hydrogen production and storage, grid modernization, geothermal, and building electrification and efficiency. The recent awards and the Innovation Program build upon the state’s commitment to the goals of the CLCPA and supports the state’s transition into a renewable green economy.

LEGISLATIVE UPDATES

Hochul Signs Maternal Health Legislative Package

Earlier this week, Hochul signed a legislative package to increase healthcare access and support maternal health. The three bills in the legislative package are:

State Health Insurance Enrollment: allows pregnant women to enroll in the state health insurance exchange at any time without penalty
Coverage of Prenatal Vitamins: requires commercial health insurance to cover prenatal vitamins when prescribed by a healthcare practitioner
Coverage of Human Donor Milk: expands coverage for commercial health insurance for human donor milk

The enactment of the legislative package expands on the state’s coverage of women’s health during and after pregnancy, with many lawmakers advancing the issue during this year’s legislative session. Notably, the first-in-the-nation prenatal care leave policy will be effective on January 1st. “We’ve taken another significant step towards ensuring that every expectant mother in our state has access to healthcare without barriers or delays,” explained Hochul.

Lawmakers Look to Introduce New Proposals to Regulate AI

After a recent hearing on artificial intelligence and its impact on consumer protections, lawmakers explained that they would introduce several proposals to regulate artificial intelligence in the state effectively. Assemblymember Alex Bores, one of the various lawmakers leading the effort, said that the state should create a legal standard to determine liability for AI usage, require AI generators to keep watermarks on generated images, and direct social media platforms to retain and disclose the metadata on promoted files. Lawmakers also explained that they want to balance innovation and protection, with Senate Internet & Technology Chair Kristen Gonzalez explaining, “How and when and where does it make sense to use this technology, versus regulating the technology itself? Because we don’t want to get in the way of innovation.”

Division of Budget Urges Agencies to Keep Funding Request Flat

On Tuesday, the Division of Budget sent a letter to all state agencies warning them to keep their funding flat for the upcoming cycle of budget negotiations. This comes as the state is expected to face a large multi-year spending gap, with more than $5 billion next year and a $9.9 billion budget gap by 2028. “While there is a growing consensus that the national economy is proceeding toward a ‘soft landing,’ New York’s status as the world’s financial capital makes it susceptible to a multitude of economic, geopolitical, and market risks,” Budget Director Blake Washington explained in the letter.

The letter comes as the MTA faces a $15 billion budget gap in their capital budget, a ballooning $100 billion Medicaid program, and a report on possible changes for Foundation Aid school funding is due on December 1st. Agency budget requests are due by October 17th. Last year, the Division of Budget similarly warned state agencies to reign down their funding request due to projected budget gaps.

Assemblymember Eddie Gibbs Summoned for Disorderly Conduct

On Thursday, Assemblymember Eddie Gibbs was arrested and given a summons for disorderly conduct by the NYPD. It has been reported that the NYPD officers stopped a car belonging to Gibbs’ brother for a broken taillight, and Gibbs approached the car and interfered. After Gibbs refused to get on the sidewalk and argued with officers, he was taken into custody. However, Gibbs apologized and explained that the officers did nothing wrong. “The officers did nothing wrong. It was all on my part… I interfered with an NYPD stop…and I accepted my summons,” said Gibbs.

Lawmakers Introduce the PAWS Act

Joined by Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal, Assemblymember Harvey Epstein, animal advocates, and pet owners at the Chelsea Waterside Dog Park, Senator Andrew Gounardes and Assemblymember Tony Simone announced the introduction of the new Protecting Animals Walking on the Street (PAWS) Act. The bill would increase penalties against drivers who cause harm to pets and leave the scene without reporting. The bill comes as number of pets in the state surpasses 1.1 million and the current penalty for injuring a pet with a car being the same penalty for an illegal U-turn. “Right now, our traffic law treats them like disposable property. The PAWS Act recognizes the dignity and value of these nonhuman New Yorkers,” explained Gournades.

**D&A’s Lobby Dogs including Izzy support this effort!**

2024 Election Updates

Election Day is on Tuesday, November 5th
Early voting starts on Saturday, October 26th until Sunday, November 3rd
To look up important voting deadlines for registration and applications, please click here
To look up for your poll site or track your ballot, please click here

Democratic Hopeful Brings National Politics Into Assembly Race

Joe Seeman, the Democratic candidate seeking to replace Assemblymember Mary Beth Walsh, criticized Walsh for not rebuking Donald Trump. Seeman, a progressive activist in his second bid against Walsh, has been attempting to bring in national politics to garner more votes. “While the policies that Mrs. Walsh and I differ on for New York state are very important, so are principles of honesty, respect, decency, and integrity,” Seeman explained. Meanwhile, Walsh criticized Seeman for being “so far left that for years you could find him at a rally anywhere for almost anything, from BLM rallies to the steps of Congresswoman Stefanik’s office in Glens Falls,” due to his endorsement from the DSA. While Walsh’s district includes many Republican-leaning areas, two out of three counties went for Joe Biden in 2020.

Republican Candidate Criticizes Lea Webb's Energy Policy Record

Mike Sigler, the Republican candidate seeking to replace Senator Lea Webb, criticized Webb for her advocacy on renewable energy, which has led to “people struggling to pay bills.” “[The state’s energy policies] has been very unsuccessful, [and] it has raised the rates of electricity in this state by a lot,” he added. Sigler explained that he is a “more practical person” than Webb and proposed constructing new nuclear power plants to ease the state off of fossil fuel while limiting energy costs for the state. In the Senate, Webb has led the effort to ban carbon dioxide fracking and supported investments in green energy, attracting support from various state environmental groups.

Lawsuit Filed in Race Between Mike Lawler and Mondaire Jones

In a contentious race for the 17th Congressional District between Congressman Mike Lawler and former Congressman Mondaire Jones, a lawsuit was filed to remove the Working Families Party candidate Anthony Frascone from the remaining ballots. The suit alleges Frascone of being a “subversive candidate” scheming to “[siphon] and [dilute] the vote” from other candidates. Many Democratic and WFP officials view Frascone, who secured the WFP ticket against Jones by 90 votes in June, as a spoiler candidate that can siphon votes for Jones and tip the race towards Lawler since Lawler won his previous electionby less than 1,800 votes. Westchester State Supreme Judge Janet Malone issued a restraining order barring the local board of elections in the congressional district from issuing new ballots and scheduled a hearing on Monday.

Debate Between Congressman Brandon Williams and Senator John Mannion

On Tuesday night, Senator John Mannion and Congressman Brandon Williams participated in a debate for the Central New York-based congressional district. During the debate, Williams called Mannion a liar over Mannion’s ads attacking Williams for not supporting reproductive rights. Williams said that he does support reproductive rights and Mannion is "playing on the fears of women.” Mannion explained that Williams called the US Supreme Court’s overturning of Roe v. Wade “a monumental victory” in a 2022 statement. Williams and Mannion disagreed on the 2017 Trump tax reforms, SALT cap, student debt relief, and education. However, both candidates agreed to support the construction of new nuclear power plants and oppose any cuts to Social Security and Medicaid (and they both prefer dogs over cats).

Vice Presidential Debate

In another Tuesday night debate, former Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Senator JD Vance took part in the first and only Vice Presidential Debate between former Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Senator JD Vance. Hosted by CBS News in Manhattan, the debate largely focused on domestic issues: immigration, economic, peaceful transfer of power, gun ownership, healthcare, and reproductive rights. The debate did see an opening question on the conflict between Israel, Iran, and Lebanon as the region saw an escalation of the conflict on Tuesday morning. Many observers view the debate as a net positive for both the Harris and Trump campaigns.

OTHER UPDATES

Eric Adams Indicted By Federal Prosecutors

After months of speculation, NYC Mayor Eric Adams was indicted on five counts of federal charges by the Southern District of New York. Currently, Adams faces one count of conspiracy to receive campaign contributions from foreign nationals, one count of wire fraud, two counts of soliciting campaign contributions from foreign nationals, and one count of soliciting and accepting a bribe. All five counts are punishable by up to 45 years in prison. According to the indictment, Adams is alleged to have secretly solicited and accepted favors, gifts, and donations from wealthy individuals, including those associated with the Turkish government. Following the indictment, Adams’ top aide, Timothy Pearson, resigned, and the NYC School Chancellor announced his departure in two weeks. Federal prosecutors also said that they are pursuing other “several related investigations.”

Adams has pleaded not guilty to all five counts and vows to stay in office. “From here, my attorneys will take care of the case so I can take care of the city,” explained Adams. However, more than 40 bipartisan city, state, and federal lawmakers called for his resignation. Hochul, who has the power to remove Adams from office, has not called on Adams to resign but instead urged Adams to “review the situation and find an appropriate path.” If Adams resigns or is removed by Hochul, Public Advocate Jumaane Williams will be the interim mayor during the special election to replace Adams. However, it was confirmed earlier this week that Williams also accepted donations from a contractor linked to Adams’ indictment. Williams’ spokesperson said the campaign “will closely review the donation to ensure both ethical and legal compliance.”

Judge Arthur Engoron Moves Forward With Congestion Pricing Lawsuits

After two hours of arguments, Judge Arthur Engoron denied Hochul’s request to toss two lawsuits challenging her decision to halt congestion pricing. One lawsuit alleges Hochul violated the law by pausing congestion pricing, and the other alleges that Hochul is undercutting the state’s effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. While the two lawsuits are filed separately, both contest Hochul’s authority to pause congestion pricing after the Legislature approved it in 2019. While the denial of Hochul’s request ensures that the lawsuits can move forward, Hochul has previously stated that she has a proposal to replace congestion pricing for lawmakers to vote on in January. This denial comes after the MTA board voted in favor of its proposed $68.5 billion capital plan.

US Supreme Court Rejects RFK Jr.'s Bid to Stay on NY Ballot

Late last week, the US Supreme Court denied a request by RFK Jr.’s campaign committee to reinstate him to the state’s ballot for the presidential election. The state Board of Elections previously removed Kennedy from the ballot because Kennedy used a New York address, although he lives in California. Kennedy explained that the address requirement is technical and that excluding him from the ballot would violate the constitutional rights of voters to vote for him. The US Supreme Court’s denial was issued without any recorded dissents. Kennedy’s campaign has been suspended since August, and he has since urged his voters to vote for Donald Trump.

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