SC New York News

Senator O'Mara has shared his weekly column, offering insights into the challenges and issues facing the Legislature. This week's column is titled "Latest statewide poll: NY headed in the wrong direction."

O'Mara reflects on his representation of the 58th Senate District since legislative redistricting in 2020. The district includes all of Chemung, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, Tioga, and Yates counties, as well as part of Allegany County.

He highlights recent efforts to support communities affected by flash flooding from Tropical Storm Debby in August. Governor Kathy Hochul announced emergency repair grants through a "Resilient and Ready Home Repair Program," with applications due by October 7th. O'Mara and his colleagues are urging for continued state support to ensure all impacted residents receive necessary assistance.

O'Mara also emphasizes the need for an improved Department of Environmental Conservation permitting process for stream and streambank repairs to prevent future flooding.

The senator commends the local and regional response to the crisis: "It has reaffirmed one thing we know about our region: In times of crisis, we always pull together!"

Looking ahead to the 2025 legislative session, O'Mara stresses the importance of redirecting New York's priorities to address unmet challenges. He points to a recent Siena College Research Institute survey showing low favorability ratings for Governor Hochul and widespread pessimism about the state's direction.

"Just as New York voters have soured on Governor Hochul, so too they have soured on the direction of the state," reads an excerpt from Siena's poll analysis. According to O'Mara, this underscores a need for change: "There is a fundamental need and urgency to chart a new course for a more sensible and sustainable State government."

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