Senator Pam Helming, joined by Senate Republican Leader Rob Ortt and local business and community stakeholders, hosted a roundtable discussion this week focused on addressing affordability challenges across New York State. The event is part of a series organized by the Senate Republican Conference to hear directly from residents and business leaders about the rising costs of living.
Participants highlighted challenges spanning childcare, housing, energy, utilities, and regulatory burdens. Senator Helming emphasized the need to reduce unnecessary mandates that drive up costs for families, seniors, and businesses. “Working together, we can create a future where our kids and future generations can afford to call New York home,” she said.
Senate Republican Leader Rob Ortt noted that high costs have been exacerbated by one-party rule in Albany and stressed the importance of stakeholder input in shaping policies that make New York more affordable.
Local business leaders and organizations echoed the concerns. Cassandra Anderson of the New York Insurance Association stressed the need for stable, accessible insurance markets. Bob Duffy of the Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce highlighted rising costs in corporate and consumer supply chains, while Mike Durant of Food Industry of NY called for actionable solutions for retailers. Ron Epstein of NY Construction Materials and Travis Wattie of Big I New York also cited infrastructure challenges, insurance fraud, and legal system abuse as key drivers of increased costs.
The roundtable reflects ongoing efforts by Senate Republicans to explore policies aimed at lowering costs, strengthening communities, and supporting economic growth across New York State.
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