Fuschillo Sworn for New Senate Term, Elected to Finance Committee

Senator Charles J. Fuschillo Jr., R-Merrick, was recently sworn in for a new term as the New York State Senator for the 8th District.

"I am deeply grateful that residents have again placed their trust and faith in me to represent them in the New York State Senate. It’s an honor and a privilege that I truly appreciate," said Senator Fuschillo. "I look forward to another two years of serving our communities."

Senator Fuschillo listed a number of priorities he will be focusing on in the coming year, including:

• Enacting a property tax cap and a cap on state spending.
• Creating jobs and improving the economic climate in New York State.
• Finding ways to reduce state spending and make government operate more efficiently.
• Creating a new law to require mandatory jail sentences for repeat drunk driving offenders.

Fuschillo was also appointed to serve on the powerful Senate Finance Committee by Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos.

“I am honored that Senator Skelos has appointed me to this committee,” Fuschillo said.  “Our state faces an enormous challenge, closing a multi-billion dollar budget deficit, reducing spending and taxes and providing property tax relief.  The Senate Finance Committee will be at the center of the budget debate and I look forward to providing a strong voice in the budget discussion for my district and for all of Long Island.”

“Senator Fuschillo has done an outstanding job advocating for the best interests of his constituents in state budget and finance issues,” Skelos said.  “Senator Fuschillo is a trusted advisor and good friend and has the ability to work with the Governor and colleagues on both sides of the aisle to get things done. I’m confident he will provide valuable input as a member of the Finance Committee that can benefit the entire state as we tackle the tough issues ahead.”

This is the first time that Senator Fuschillo has served on the Senate Finance Committee.

The Senate Finance Committee has a major responsibility to review the Governor’s proposed budget, including conducting public hearings and developing the Senate’s priorities for the State Budget. The Finance Committee will examine appropriations and disbursements for each agency included in the budget.

The Senate Finance Committee also reviews and considers bills and resolutions that provide for an appropriation of funds. In addition, the Finance Committee acts on nominations sent by the Governor for appointments to many boards, authorities, agencies and commissions, and moving the nominations to the full Senate.