Kathy Hochul, Democrat :
Climate change is the fight of this generation and Governor Hochul has taken it on as her “moonshot” project. This generation may be the first to feel the worst effects of climate change, but it will also be the last to be able to do anything about it. Governor Hochul recognizes the importance of this moment and is committed to making New York a leader in the climate justice movement. New York has implemented the most aggressive climate and clean energy agenda in the nation, accelerating the state's transition to a green economy and creating thousands of good-paying clean energy jobs. The Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA) put New York on a path to achieve its mandated goal of a zero-emission electricity sector by 2040, and the Hochul administration is committed to achieving this goal. From accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles to updating building codes to reflect new green standards, the governor is taking meaningful action in the fight against climate change.

Kathy Hochul, Democrat :
Governor Hochul has demonstrated a commitment to following independent, scientific advice on many fronts. She appointed Dr. Mary Bassett M.D, M.P.H., as the state's health commissioner in late 2021. Dr. Bassett, a former Harvard professor and New York City Health Commissioner, leads the state's response to COVID, monkeypox, and all new and emerging diseases. She is also the governor's top medical advisor, and ensures that a science and evidence-based perspective is present throughout the state's policy-making process. The governor is always willing to confer with experts in their fields on any issue and respects the role that science plays in high-level policy decisions.

Kathy Hochul, Democrat :
Governor Hochul has taken steps to commission and complete an “After-Action Review” of New York State's response to the coronavirus pandemic. The review will examine the state's COVID-19 response, identify what worked and what did not, and examine what could have been improved about the state's response. It will be wide-ranging, examining everything from the impact that the pandemic had on the state's small businesses to the state's coordination between its federal and local counterparts. The review will also specifically look at policies and guidance regarding the transfer of vulnerable individuals into congregate settings, including nursing homes, homeless shelters, and jails and prisons, among other assessments. Conducted by an independent consultant, the review, the first of its kind, will serve as a guide for both New York and other states across the country to use in order to respond quickly and effectively to similar crises that may occur in the future.

Kathy Hochul, Democrat :
Governor Hochul is excited about the role New York is playing at the forefront of scientific innovation. From the Wadsworth Center in Albany conducting vital research on COVID and monkeypox, to SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University training our next generation of healthcare professionals, New York is leading the way and intends to continue to support these efforts. Additionally, Governor Hochul appointed medical experts to top positions in her administration including Dr. Mary Bassett as Commissioner of Health and Dr. Chinazo Cunningham as Commissioner of the Office of Addiction Services and Supports. The governor has provided millions in funding for scientific research and public health and welcomes any opportunities for open discussions with healthcare professionals to inform her decisions regarding healthcare policy.

Kathy Hochul, Democrat :
Governor Hochul has often referred to gun violence as an ongoing public health crisis and is fully committed to putting an end to gun violence in New York. Since taking office, Governor Hochul has been working tirelessly to stem the proliferation of guns onto New York streets. When the Supreme Court recklessly struck down New York's' 100-year-old concealed carry law, the governor called the legislature back for an extraordinary session to pass legislation establishing sensitive locations that will be gun-free zones while also increasing eligibility requirements for those seeking concealed carry permits. The governor also signed legislation, in response to the tragic shootings in Buffalo and Uvalde, expanding New York's Red Flag Laws, as well as increasing background checks on both firearm and ammunition sales. Additionally, the governor's Interstate Task Force on Illegal Guns has increased coordination among neighboring states to prevent illegal guns from entering our communities. The task force, in combination with increased levels of gun seizures since the governor took office, will help protect New Yorkers from gun violence.

Kathy Hochul, Democrat :
Governor Hochul is dedicated to improving housing security and making it more affordable to own or rent a home in New York State. She launched a new $25 billion five-year housing plan to create or preserve 100,000 affordable homes statewide, including 10,000 units with support services for vulnerable populations. The plan consists of $5.7 billion in capital resources, $8.8 billion in state and federal tax credits and other federal allocations, and $11 billion to support the operation of shelters and supportive housing units and to provide rental subsidies. The governor also actively supported and was proud to sign legislation creating the New York City Public Housing Preservation Trust, which will pave the way for the overdue repair, rehabilitation, and modernization of 25,000 apartments under control of NYCHA. Housing is essential to improving the lives of all New Yorkers and Governor Hochul is committed to making owning a home a realistic goal for everyone in this great state.

Kathy Hochul, Democrat :
Governor Hochul has supported the State's CLCPA mandate to generate 70 percent of the state's electricity from renewables by 2030 as part of a resilient and equitable transition to a clean energy economy, and she is committed to achieving this goal. Additionally, the governor plans to double energy storage deployment to at least six gigawatts by 2030, providing a pathway to supplant fossil-fueled generators that disproportionately affect disadvantaged communities while ensuring a clean, reliable and resilient electric grid. She has also proposed a plan to achieve two million climate-friendly, electrified, or electrification-ready homes by 2030 and legislation to ensure that all new building construction reaches zero-emissions by 2027 — allowing more than 800,000 low-to-moderate income households to secure clean energy upgrades. These steps are among many others Governor Hochul has taken and will take in order to ensure that New York meets its goals for clean and renewable energy.

Kathy Hochul, Democrat :
Governor Hochul has already taken several steps to limit New York's greenhouse gas emissions and knows there is more work to do. She has signed legislation aiming to reduce statewide greenhouse gas emissions by 60% in 2030, and another 15% by 2050. Additionally, the governor has signed legislation updating statewide building codes to meet new standards of energy efficiency and supports a rapid transition to zero-emissions electric vehicles, as well as deploying 60 zero-emission electric buses to serve all five boroughs. The governor is committed to reducing the state's greenhouse gas emissions and will take the necessary steps to do so.

Kathy Hochul, Democrat :
The governor has worked hard to take the necessary steps to improve New York's agricultural and environmental resilience, from expanding the SUNY Stony Brook Center for Clean Water Technology research to include wastewater treatment technology, to creating the Suffolk County Wastewater Management District. Governor Hochul also recently provided millions to farms across the state, through the Climate Resilient Farming Program (CRF), to help farms adapt to climate change, advance New York's efforts to reduce agricultural greenhouse gasses, and improve on farm and community-wide resiliency measures. Additionally, expanded CRF funding will help the state and its farms access key opportunities for mitigation, resilience, and adaptation beyond the program's current offerings. By expanding grant programs to include technology research and development alongside infrastructure, and by helping agriculture producers adapt for a more resilient food system, the governor has already begun implementing her vision for how New York's policymakers can help our institutions address ever-changing environmental conditions.

Kathy Hochul, Democrat :
Governor Hochul has long emphasized the importance of a STEMM education and believes we should be prioritizing investments to bolster access to quality education in every community across the state. To that end, her FY 2023 budget is providing $31.5 billion in total school aid, the highest level of state aid ever. Governor Hochul has also allocated $301 million to support nonpublic schools, which includes $58 million to go toward STEMM instruction, a 45% increase from the year before. Governor Hochul also recognizes the importance of dedicated teachers in providing students with high quality instruction, and has taken action to address the vast teacher shortage, such as funding the New York State Master Teacher program for K-12 STEMM teachers. Additionally, she proposed $100 million in new grants to support New York's highest need schools with funds for academic support. The governor intends to build off of her budget's education plan and continue making investments in education that reflect her commitment to building a stronger, more equitable system.

Kathy Hochul, Democrat :
Governor Hochul's enacted budget allocates a record $31.5 billion in total school aid, which represents a year-to-year increase of $2.1 billion compared to school year 2022. The governor is committed to ensuring New York students have access to quality education and has worked tirelessly to rebuild our education system in New York following the COVID-19 pandemic. As part of her New Era for New York proposal, she committed to providing billions of dollars to schools by fully funding Foundation Aid — allowing State funds to be allocated equitably to all school districts. To further support New York City students, Governor Hochul signed a bill approving class size limits for public schools. Finally, the governor has created a state teacher residency program, funded new cohorts of the Master Teacher Program, expanded teacher certification programs such as the New York City Teacher Collaborative, and temporarily waived the income cap for certain retirees to bolster the teaching workforce and address the teacher shortage. The governor knows the importance of the state's public school system and has provided historic levels of funding to reflect this.

Kathy Hochul, Democrat :
I oppose cutting funding for STEMM programs and strongly support increasing funding for STEMM education at every level.

Susan Berland, Democrat, District 1 :
Skin cancer has become the most common cancer in the United States; over 9,500 people in our country are diagnosed with it every day. I would support finding a cure for melanoma and other forms of skin cancer and the development of a sun block or other safeguards that would protect against the occurrence of any future skin cancers.

Wendy Rodriguez, Republican, District 4 :
My moonshot project would be to end cancer. So many of us have friends and family that have been affected by cancer. Through the advancements in Vaccines, and DNA sequencing this goal seems more achievable than ever.

John E. Brooks, Democrat, District 5 :
The most important scientific endeavor that we are focusing on currently is the transition to clean energy. The expanded use of clean energy, particularly offshore wind farms and solar energy production based on Long Island, would be of great benefit to the expedition and overall success of this transition. An additional project I have been working on is the creation of a sustainable system to water lawns that makes use of short wells, a biochar-based filtration system, and solar energy to power the pumps. The proper execution of this idea could significantly reduce the wastewater created by residential lawn care.

Jessica Ramos, Democrat, District 13 :
I would love to see a sustainable food system accessible to all New Yorkers. We've lost so much of our knowledge of sustainable indigenous food practices and many residents of my district struggle to get enough food on the table for their families. From my work with farmworkers to feed folks during the pandemic, I know it's possible to make sure all New Yorkers receive nutritional meals without straining our planet's ability to survive.

Ruben Cruz, Republican, District 16 :
I would like to explore/expand/ and make affordably available Chlorophyll-based organic solar cells that are light, flexible and can replace roofing tiles.

Michelle Ostrelich, Democrat, District 44 :
My team has always included science-trained professionals and in my current legislative work I always consult with experts in appropriate fields.

Rachel May, Democrat, District 48 :
Rapid detection and neutralization of invasive species to protect native ecosystems

Diane Sare, Independent :
Two related endeavors: the urgent development of a prototype thermonuclear fusion reactor. We really must get rid of the Wolf Amendment and work with China, which is progressing rapidly on this. Secondly, we should fully support the Artemis mission with an eye toward Mars colonization. I believe we need fusion powered rockets to make that trip viable.

Susan Berland, Democrat, District 1 :
I believe that scientific evidence and processes are crucial to policy development. Working together with scientists, medical doctors and an array of technical experts is crucial in understanding, interpreting and translating information regarding any problem so we can develop the best solutions. I always have, and always will, involve those with the relevant expertise and knowledge in my decision-making teams.

Wendy Rodriguez, Republican, District 4 :
Evidence, data and facts into the policymaking process should be incorporated. Meeting with experts on issues before the legislator is key.

John E. Brooks, Democrat, District 5 :
I have had the opportunity to meet with a number of scientists and engineers that are researching various uses and development of clean energy. I have a close working relationship with the academic institutions on Long Island that conduct scientific research and I make it a point to hear from accredited experts on matters that involve a technical understanding of specialized science, engineering, or health policy.

Jessica Ramos, Democrat, District 13 :
I am in office to represent my community, which deserves the absolute best. I believe it's my job to learn from policymaking experts on all issues. Whether it's speaking with homecare workers to discuss how to build a caring economy, hearing from members of the Committee on Interns and Residents about how to support overworked medical staff, or learning from climate scientists about the need to prevent the Astoria NRG Plant from opening, it's my priority to not only be available when experts ask to speak to me, but to prioritize open and proactive communication with experts as I work on policy.

Ruben Cruz, Republican, District 16 :
While I personally do extensive research, I would like to create a state board to advise on policies that impact our health personally and environmentally. Barring that, I've relied on studies such as NYU Landgone Medical Center that measured fine metal particles that enter our lungs from subways around the world and found that the MTA was the worst in the world measuring at over 77 times the concentration found above ground. That's like inhaling wildfire smoke on your daily commute.So we have a lot of work to do in this area.

Michelle Ostrelich, Democrat, District 44 :
I support organized labor in all fields.

Rachel May, Democrat, District 48 :
I have proposed a Division of Research and Analysis (DORA) to assist the NY State Legislature in analyzing proposed legislation, so that we are not so dependent on paid lobbyists to educate us about bills; I also carry a bill for data sharing and standardization on watersheds in the state; and as Chair of the Committee on Aging I've created a “Reimagining Long-Term Care Taskforce" to assemble information about best practices elsewhere so that we can plan appropriately here. I'm also on the EPA Local Government Advisory Council.

Diane Sare, Independent :
If there is doubt or controversy on a matter, like whether CO2 actually causes climate change, I think we need to create a forum where scientists can present their evidence.

Susan Berland, Democrat, District 1 :
I think unions can have a positive impact across STEMM to deter job discrimination and sexual discrimination in the workplace and to ensure fair wages and accountability from employers.

Wendy Rodriguez, Republican, District 4 :
Overwhelmingly, our problem continues to be illegal guns. As gun prevention relates to public health, it appears to be more of a peace of mind distraction than the illegal gun problem we have.

John E. Brooks, Democrat, District 5 :
One of the advantages of unions is that they provide for the longer-term needs of the employees they represent, such as healthcare and retirement benefits. I am a big supporter of unionization efforts and believe that it allows both the science community and the labor community to focus on their respective fields of expertise for everyone's mutual benefit.

Jessica Ramos, Democrat, District 13 :
As the Chair of the State Senate's Labor Committee, I believe unions belong in every industry. Workers are too often exploited without a Collective Bargaining Agreement, and that includes folks in STEMM. From talking with grad student unions and unions that organize healthcare workers, I have started to hear about 80 hour workweeks, bosses that require good reviews, and a lot of union busting in STEMM workplaces. I am always happy to support unions by writing a letter, making a call, speaking at a rally, or whatever is needed from me.

Ruben Cruz, Republican, District 16 :
As an 1199 Union Member, I'm very proud of the work we do in servicing the needs in our communities. In the science industries, I'd like to see more acknowledgement of individual contributions and appropriate recognition of creative rights including ownership in the creative process. As we know, most contracts make any creations, contributions and patents the property of the company.

Michelle Ostrelich, Democrat, District 44 :
As a County Legislator, I was part of our County's COVID response team. In those early weeks and months, information was constantly changing – we did our best to keep our community safe, providing up-to-date information as it came in and ensuring families had the food and supplies they needed. We also worked hard to ensure first responders had PPE. The pandemic shined a bright light on healthcare inequities in our state and across the country. It is one of the reasons I fought so hard to expose inequities in our local hospital merger (Ellis Medicine/Trinity Health) – and it will be one of my key legislative priorities as a State Senator.

Rachel May, Democrat, District 48 :
I hope it will lead to better working conditions, enable more people of limited means to enter the fields, and possibly enable a shift toward less top-down and more lateral sharing of skills and information.

Diane Sare, Independent :
Generally I don't agree with suppressing scientific collaboration. The human mind is universal, not a color or a race.

Susan Berland, Democrat, District 1 :
We can always do better in responding to a health crisis. We lost so many lives. We need to make sure that we manufacture all the medical and protective items we need here in the United States and have them available when they are needed. We also need to make sure all necessary precautions are taken earlier to help treat patients and limit the spread of disease. My son worked as an EMT in the height of COVID and lacked the necessary supplies to help his patients and protect himself.

Wendy Rodriguez, Republican, District 4 :
The coronavirus pandemic highlighted long standing deficiencies in the state's ability to comprehensively and transparently tackle a public health crisis of this magnitude. Throughout the pandemic, the Executive branch utilized extraordinary emergency powers tand the emergency rulemaking process to implement policies that would typically require legislative approval. The continued utilization of these mechanisms became an abue of power by the Executive branch, and resulted in many programmatic failures such as the distribution of unemployment benefits, vaccines, PPE and funding resources. In addition, the state utterly failed our nursing homes, their patients and workforce. It is imperative we learn from these missteps in order to better prepare our emergency response for future public health crises. This is why I will continue to advocate for comprehensive review of the state's coronavirus response, particularly in our nursing homes.

John E. Brooks, Democrat, District 5 :
Nationally, we were totally unprepared. New York state at the time ended up providing national guidance on pandemic response initiatives in the absence of a national strategy. However, there are several areas that could have been carried out better. We should have conducted a faster assessment on the number of and different kinds of facilities that were needed for housing and quarantining recovering patients to avoid infecting otherwise healthy medical communities, nursing homes, and rehabilitation centers. The availability and distribution of the vaccines, once developed, could also have been improved upon despite the over-politicization of the personal decision on whether to vaccinate.

Jessica Ramos, Democrat, District 13 :
I have to be honest, as someone who represents Corona and Elmhurst Hospital, the center of the coronavirus pandemic back in the first half of 2020, I often felt like the state's response was not enough, and continue to feel that way. From having to ask for a mobile testing site in my district so that folks didn't have to go to the hospital to get tested in March 2020, to feeling disappointment that testing sites were once again overwhelmed by the start of the Omicron wave in December 2021, my neighborhood rarely gets enough resources, elongating the crisis. My other disappointment is in folks' desire to “return to normal,” when normal wasn't working for most folks I know. The need to pass NYHA became even more obvious as a result of Covid, yet it didn't come to a vote last session.

Ruben Cruz, Republican, District 16 :
I think New Yorkers did the best they could under the circumstances. We lost a close friend at the very beginning of the outbreak. The politicizing of the pandemic was an unfortunate distraction. We saw some positive changes to the environment and wildlife while the education of our children suffered. The pandemic showed that we can change the way we do things. Instead of looking to go back to the old ways, I would have looked for ways to adapt for the future.

Michelle Ostrelich, Democrat, District 44 :
One of the most important tenets of the scientific process is changing as understanding changes. The key things are to be flexible, open to change and challenge, and try to stay current.

Rachel May, Democrat, District 48 :
As the site of the worst effects of the virus in its early stages in the US, and in the absence of any real help from the Trump administration, New York had to come up with its own roadmap in very short order. Gov. Cuomo took this job seriously and marshaled a lot of resources for it, and instituted a number of policies that probably saved many lives. He made a very tragic miscalculation about nursing homes, however, which he then compounded by releasing inaccurate information and preventing access to nursing homes by those who might have performed oversight. We were able to hold hearings on the crisis in long term care, and specifically about his policies in nursing homes. I did finally succeed in getting visitors allowed back into nursing homes on a limited basis, but only after a year; it should never have taken that long. I also wish we could have done more early on to fight the misinformation and willful flouting of basic prevention strategies like masks and vaccination.

Diane Sare, Independent :
Catastrophic and totally uncoordinated. Hospitals seemed to have no communication with each other, so some were overflowing and others had many open beds, at least in NYC, which is where I was for much of the time. Testing and contact tracing were not emphasized enough. Very little care was given to the elderly and vulnerable populations, and the homeless people were cruelly used to bail out the hotel industry. I also believe that when there is so much reason to not trust the government or the pharmaceutical companies, you cannot impose mandates. Much more education on the history of public health measures, like quarantine and vaccine development were needed.

Susan Berland, Democrat, District 1 :
I don't think any government entity should be making healthcare policy decisions without reaching out to the experts in the relevant fields and disciplines.

Wendy Rodriguez, Republican, District 4 :
The healthcare space is rapidly evolving with emerging technologies and scientific advances. It is incumbent upon legislators to continually engage with the scientific community in order to understand these developments, and update the law accordingly to ensure New Yorkers have access to innovative medical treatments while upholding the highest quality of care"

John E. Brooks, Democrat, District 5 :
I maintain active communication with a large number of people in the healthcare community, including regional heads of hospital networks, teaching physicians, and scientific researchers and professors at educational institutions. I am always open to meeting with professional groups and scientists on specific or general issues.

Jessica Ramos, Democrat, District 13 :
I am very invested in listening to experts when it comes to healthcare, such as workers with NYSNA and CIR, clinicians and researchers at Elmhurst Hospital, and members of the National Association of Social Workers–NYC. Our healthcare policies need to be informed by people working on health care advances and using new strategies to serve New Yorkers.

Ruben Cruz, Republican, District 16 :
The same way I approach science and tech policy, I would add to my research the findings of the World Health Organization.

Michelle Ostrelich, Democrat, District 44 :
Gun violence prevention is absolutely a public health issue, and there is much more we can and should be doing to help keep ourselves, our families, and our friends and neighbors safe. That includes issues like safe storage and education about depression and suicide. For example, I support banning ghost guns and assault weapons, raising the purchase age for all firearms to 21, extending waiting periods, implementing Red Flag laws, providing financial incentives for safe storage, and requiring prominent messaging about depression/suicide risks in gun stores and shows.

Rachel May, Democrat, District 48 :
I'm on the Aging and Health Committees, so I spend a lot of time listening to experts on a whole host of topics from geriatrics to addiction science to racial disparities in maternal health.

Diane Sare, Independent :
I will study these areas, and consult with people who are professional doctors and scientists. Since poverty is the number one comorbidity of almost everything, I really think there must be much more emphasis on things like housing, water, sanitation and nutrition. We cannot ignore the conditions in the rest of the world and expect to be healthy here.

Susan Berland, Democrat, District 1 :
Gun violence kills, injures and disables not just the person shot but the families affected as well. I support all of the recent gun prevention laws passed by New York State, and I believe we need to continue to do all we can to regulate and limit access to assault rifles and to keep illegal guns off the streets and out of the hands of dangerous people.

Wendy Rodriguez, Republican, District 4 :
Gun safety is a priority for all New Yorkers, especially following the senseless loss of life in Buffalo. I support implementing policies that protect New Yorkers, while ensuring law abiding gun owners do not have their rights adversely impacted. This can be achieved through education, mental health funding and removing illegal weapons from our streets.

John E. Brooks, Democrat, District 5 :
Gun violence is one of the absolute greatest threats to public health and safety in this country. Beyond getting illegal guns off the streets, we must enact common sense gun safety measures and address the current availability of weapons of war to anyone who desires them. Northwell Health and their leadership have taken an active role in gun violence prevention on Long Island and I look forward to continuing to work with them and the many other partners in these efforts to address this crisis.

Jessica Ramos, Democrat, District 13 :
Public health includes safety–safety from illness, safety from poverty, and safety from violence. New York should have the strongest gun safety laws in the country, and I'm proud to have supported our new gun prevention legislative package"

Ruben Cruz, Republican, District 16 :
Overwhelmingly, our problem continues to be illegal guns. As gun prevention relates to public health, it appears to be more of a peace of mind distraction than the illegal gun problem we have.

Michelle Ostrelich, Democrat, District 44 :
Housing has been a focus of mine on the County Legislature, and in the State Senate I would put a staffer in place specifically for these issues. We need more housing throughout the continuum in this district – senior, veteran, supportive, transitional, low-income, workforce, and emergency shelters. We must create more initiatives to incentivize developers as well as individuals willing to rehabilitate our older housing stock to create more safe, attainable housing for all.

Rachel May, Democrat, District 48 :
I believe it is a fundamental public health issue. Not only the gun violence itself, but the trauma it inflicts on families and communities.

Diane Sare, Independent :
I don't think that guns are the issue, except perhaps the ones illegally obtained, and the NYPD does a remarkable job at getting many of them off the street, and should be encouraged in that regard. More gun laws will not help. We are in a cultural dark age, where too many people are treated as expendable, and there is no guarantee of a secure future. Schumer's Marijuana “Freedom and Opportunity Act” will massively increase violence overall and drug overdoses among children, and should be stopped.

Susan Berland, Democrat, District 1 :
Over 20 years in elected office, I have supported providing expanded affordable housing opportunities. I have always been an advocate for making affordable housing affordable in perpetuity so that the housing stock is protected for generations to come. I support the building of accessory structures, especially for houses owned by seniors, to provide extra housing stock and an extra form of income to keep seniors in their homes.

Wendy Rodriguez, Republican, District 4 :
N/A

John E. Brooks, Democrat, District 5 :
Affordable housing is one of the foremost issues on Long Island and in New York as a whole. There are significant challenges both to tenants and landlords. Tenants, particularly those living on a fixed income, are often unable to afford the rising cost of rent. At the same time, landlords have to collect rental income at levels that cover the significant increases in costs associated with maintaining their property. We have to explore housing assistance programs to bridge the gap so that tenants acting in good faith are able to maintain their residences and landlords are able to collect appropriate amounts of income.

Jessica Ramos, Democrat, District 13 :
In my district, we've seen what happens when New Yorkers don't have access to affordable, safe housing. In response to the lives we lost in Hurricane Ida, I'm committed to legalizing basement apartments so that our neighbors don't have to fear the dangers of flooding in unregulated living spaces. Our needs for affordable housing and supportive housing only increase as more asylum seekers come to my district, yet skyrocketing rent is pushing people out, reaffirming the need to pass Good Cause this session. With Woodside Houses in my district until January, I have also pushed for more accountability from NYCHA to ensure tenants' safety concerns like broken boilers are resolved quickly with permanent solutions.

Ruben Cruz, Republican, District 16 :
I recommend visiting RUBENCRUZ.NYC for more information on my housing and health policies. The city spends over $168,000.00 a minute of our tax dollars and it's increasing to $173,000.00 a minute next year. We have the capacity but not the will to do anything. We can build futures, not put up tents.

Michelle Ostrelich, Democrat, District 44 :
Plans are already in motion to significantly increase our wind power generation, along with transmission line upgrades to support them. Locally, in Schenectady County we have installed enough photovoltaics to cover all municipal buildings. We are increasing the number of EV charging stations and looking into municipal and mass transit EV options.

Rachel May, Democrat, District 48 :
I support a number of ways to prevent eviction, including my own bills for a right to counsel for anyone facing eviction and the Tenant Dignity and Safe Housing Act, which allows tenants a simple means to take action against a landlord who is not fixing serious deficiencies in their housing. I also support the Good Cause Eviction bill. More than this, I am working on policy to help produce more affordable housing throughout the state.

Diane Sare, Independent :
Congress must support Section 9 funding. NYCHA should not be privatized. It amazes me that we can spend $80bn multiple times to bail out Wall Street firms like AIG, but can't seem to find funding to improve the life and productivity of our people.

Susan Berland, Democrat, District 1 :
I am a supporter of renewable energy and a continuation of a broad approach to address climate change on multiple fronts simultaneously. From retrofitting buildings to make them more energy efficient; adopting and expanding renewable energy sources like solar and wind where appropriate; investing in electric busses and rapid transit; protecting our forests, water and natural resources; and promoting more sustainable uses of land.

Wendy Rodriguez, Republican, District 4 :
New York's energy portfolio is at an important crossroads. Substantial resources and effort has been put behind investment towards renewable energy, which is important for the future of the State. However, the decision to close Indian Point, and supplant that generation gap with natural gas generators was one of the worst environmental decisions the State has taken in recent years. The CLCPA heavily favors wind, solar, and battery technology is by no means at industrial scale yet.. More resources should be put behind expanding nuclear generation, as will as emerging technologies such as Green Hydrogen. NYPA recently conducted a pilot program which blended the upwards of 40 percent into their natural gas peaker plants"

John E. Brooks, Democrat, District 5 :
I think we have a tremendous opportunity here on Long Island to generate wind power from offshore farms. The development of these facilities will provide a tremendous source of clean energy and also create a significant number of jobs in the burgeoning clean energy industry. We must also continue to look at other potential methods of producing environmentally friendly energy. We should continue to phase out the use of fossil fuel based energy sources, expand the capabilities and use of electric vehicles, and perhaps develop smart systems to monitor and efficiently control the use of energy at various times of the day.

Jessica Ramos, Democrat, District 13 :
As the sponsor of the Clean Futures Act, I continue to push New York State towards renewable energy production and usage. From growing up in Astoria and our fight against the Astoria NRG Plant, I understand that continuing to rely on nonrenewable resources is not just a climate justice fight, but a health justice and racial justice fight.

Ruben Cruz, Republican, District 16 :
We are surrounded by renewable energy opportunities. I see New York based organizations employing New York work forces to bring solar to the state.

Michelle Ostrelich, Democrat, District 44 :
New York State retains significant authority to regulate emissions and I would call on DEC to continue minimizing pollutants.

Rachel May, Democrat, District 48 :
I want us to phase out fossil fuel sources and concentrate entirely on renewables in the shortest time frame possible. This is also a reason why I support a moratorium on proof-of-work crypto mining, since it needlessly creates more energy demand without returning commensurate benefits.

Diane Sare, Independent :
I opposed the closing of Indian Point. Since the transmission lines are still there, we should build six or more small modular reactors at that location. Solar panels and windmills are a sick joke which waste a lot of labor and space to provide unreliable energy. They also are not made of biodegradable materials.

Susan Berland, Democrat, District 1 :
We need to keep regulating our emissions and do all we can to reach New York's emissions targets.

Wendy Rodriguez, Republican, District 4 :
New York's energy portfolio is at an important crossroads. Substantial resources and effort has been put behind investment towards renewable energy, which is important for the future of the State. However, the decision to close Indian Point, and supplant that generation gap with natural gas generators was one of the worst environmental decisions the State has taken in recent years. The CLCPA heavily favors wind, solar, and battery technology is by no means at industrial scale yet.. More resources should be put behind expanding nuclear generation, as will as emerging technologies such as Green Hydrogen. NYPA recently conducted a pilot program which blended the upwards of 40 percent into their natural gas peaker plants"

John E. Brooks, Democrat, District 5 :
We have an obligation to recognize the very real and very significant problems that we are facing environmentally. Congress should work to undo the damage of the ruling of the Supreme Court. As New York state legislators, we are actively trying to make use of as much clean energy as possible and we should continue to move in that direction despite the overly political determinations of the current Supreme Court.

Jessica Ramos, Democrat, District 13 :
I'm invested in New York State creating more good, green, union jobs. Regardless of the ability to enforce emissions regulations, we're not going to meet our targets if we're not building new green infrastructure while supplying jobs to folks who currently work nonrenewable energy. That's why in addition to sponsoring the Clean Futures Act, I cosponsored the Build Public Renewables Act and support the Environmental Bonds Measure on our ballots this November.

Ruben Cruz, Republican, District 16 :
I would like to explore/expand/ and make affordably available Chlorophyll-based organic solar cells that are light, flexible and can replace roofing tiles.

Michelle Ostrelich, Democrat, District 44 :
Our district has many small family farms and they need to be protected. We can and should continue the push for folks to buy local, which not only helps our neighbors but also decreases transportation costs and emissions. Many of our school districts source from local dairies, for example, and these kinds of partnerships can be expanded.

Rachel May, Democrat, District 48 :
We can incentivize green energy and require the phase in of all-electric buildings and transportation

Diane Sare, Independent :
I was happy about that decision. I don't believe that CO2 causes climate change. Where is the EPA on the horrifically polluting sabotage of the Nordstream 1 and 2 pipelines, which was most likely done by the USA in collaboration with other NATO powers?"

Susan Berland, Democrat, District 1 :
I support New York's 2022 Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Bond Act. As the Majority Leader of the Suffolk County Legislature, I supported the preservation of farmland and I fully support the movement of farm-fresh food from farm to table. I voted in favor of a pollinator taskforce, protecting the bee population, and served on the County's Marine Industry committee to support and encourage our local fishing industry and the planting of shell fish beds to add to the local economy as well as providing a natural way to clean our waters. Surface water runoff and antiquated septic systems pose continuing threats to the local marine environment, and I have supported and successfully pressed for the expansion of sewer districts throughout Suffolk County, the replacement of old septic systems with advanced innovative alternatives for septic systems, and for restrictions on pesticide and fertilizer use …, as well as other measures to protect our local waters and fragile aquifers.

Wendy Rodriguez, Republican, District 4 :
According to the latest USDA Agricultural Survey, roughly 96 percent of New York farms are family owned, many of which are also multi-generational. Our family farms are true stewards of the environment will be important players in the transition to a low-carbon economy as mandated by the CLCPA. The Environmental Protection Fund is an important tool in protecting farmland from over development, which can be substantially disruptive to local ecosystems, and encouraging best practices relating to pest management and runoff"

John E. Brooks, Democrat, District 5 :
There is a great deal of work being done in this area, particularly making use of ways to recycle and reuse waste and debris. We should continue to support the research and development of the advances that are being made in the technology of farming and its accessibility to local operations. In my interactions and visits with farmers on Long Island, I was impressed with the various steps they are taking to improve farm production while at the same time reducing waste, eliminating the use of harmful chemicals, and moving towards ever more efficient and clean operations.

Jessica Ramos, Democrat, District 13 :
I visited farms all over New York State while working to pass the Farm Laborers Fair Labor Practices Act and continued to work with farmers to distribute unsold produce to New Yorkers during the pandemic. I believe that by supporting local farmers and empowering them with education, tools, and equipment to create more sustainable practices, we'll be able to require farms to meet a higher ecological standard we just need the State to be able to help folks with transitions so that workers have a clear plan to continue providing for their families. Working with unions like the UFCW on environmental initiatives would be a great way to make sure our agriculture is sustainable and protected from future environmental disasters.

Ruben Cruz, Republican, District 16 :
I don't know how large-scale agricultural practices are affecting our local agriculture and aquaculture but would love to research it more to deliver a common sense solution.

Michelle Ostrelich, Democrat, District 44 :
Educators and policymakers nationally recognize the importance of these subjects and they are already a strong focus in our schools. In terms of equity specifically, that comes down to appropriate funding, examples of role models, and education of the educators in equity issues.

Rachel May, Democrat, District 48 :
I have several bills to aid in watershed protection, which is a major priority here in the Finger Lakes region. I support assisting farmers with cover crops, vegetative buffers, and biodigesters to help minimize the runoff from their lands.

Diane Sare, Independent :
Students should have the opportunity to participate in hands-on experiments, like replicating Erotosthenes's measurement of the circumference of the earth, or reconstructing Kepler's work in the “Harmony of the Universe.” One of my favorite science teachers gave out a flask of mixed up solids and liquids to pairs of students and we had to divide them into their original substances and identify by their properties what they were. It was very exciting!

Susan Berland, Democrat, District 1 :
I fully support a STEMM education at ALL LEVELS, and I believe all children should have equal access to STEMM programs to develop the skills necessary to pursue STEMM opportunities in higher education and employment.

Wendy Rodriguez, Republican, District 4 :
I strongly believe STEMM is a critical component of K-12 education in New York, K-12 STEMM education provides a pathway to high-paying jobs as well as supports a high-skilled labor supply. I support increasing the number of NYS Pathways in Technology Early College High School (NYS P-TECH) and funding for after-school programs that incorporate STEMM education.

John E. Brooks, Democrat, District 5 :
I think STEMM is critically important. I have provided grant funding to most of the school districts in my senatorial district to assist them in the development and expansion of these programs. Particularly in districts with limited financial resources, it is critical for the state to provide funding so that they can develop robust science-based educational programs on par with wealthier districts. I think it is important that all students in the state of NY have a fair level of exposure to STEMM programs.

Jessica Ramos, Democrat, District 13 :
I believe STEMM is a necessary component of K-12 education, and in fact, even earlier. I am very proud of the work I did while in City Hall to bring a STEAM-focussed pre-K to the Hall of Science in Corona, which I now get to continue to be involved in as State Senator. I would love to support similar projects across the state as I continue to push for Childcare for All at the state level.

Ruben Cruz, Republican, District 16 :
Honestly, if you know anyone that doesn't believe that STEMM is important, I'd like to meet them. So Yes, I believe in STEMM and I would encourage a bottom up approach allowing our poorer performing schools to get these first.

Michelle Ostrelich, Democrat, District 44 :
We need to fully fund our schools – from the large urban districts to the small rural ones – through the equitable distribution of Foundation Aid. This is critical to ensuring children have what they need to succeed.

Rachel May, Democrat, District 48 :
Absolutely. I was proud to sponsor the creation of a county-wide STEAM school here in Syracuse that will offer a wide range of career and technical education courses, and I strongly support such classes in other schools and through BOCES. Le Moyne College's ERIE21 program is a model summer program to encourage STEM interests among urban kids. I would like to see it extended elsewhere.

Diane Sare, Independent :
Schools should be funded, and the infrastructure should be maintained in good condition. There were schools in the Bronx in which the faucets didn't work during the pandemic when everyone was trying to wash their hands more frequently. We need to restore the music programs, urgently. There was a reason why Einstein played the violin.

Susan Berland, Democrat, District 1 :
I oppose cutting funding for STEMM programs and strongly support increasing funding for STEMM education at every level.

Wendy Rodriguez, Republican, District 4 :
I will fight to provide record levels of funding for our schools. I believe funding our school and freeing them from financially burdensome unfunded mandates provides them with the support and glexiblity they need to focus on providing a high-quality education to our state's students"

John E. Brooks, Democrat, District 5 :
Education funding must be a top priority. At this point in time, the overdependence on residential property taxes to fund education is creating significant financial and educational inequities in much of the state. Going forward, we must develop additional means of revenue to assist in properly funding education.

Jessica Ramos, Democrat, District 13 :
I fought hard in the State Senate to make sure we brought every penny of Foundation Aid back to Queens for 2023, only for the Mayor and my colleagues in City Council to cut funding to public schools. I am incredibly disappointed that the 22 schools in my district are collectively losing almost $11 million, especially given how much learning and development has been set back by the pandemic. I'm going to keep fighting inside the State Senate to make sure our schools get every sent from the state that they can, and if I have to, I'll keep fighting outside City Council, too.

Ruben Cruz, Republican, District 16 :
No-bid contracts and high overhead contracts devour our budgets. By eliminating no-bid contracts and capping overhead, we can add up to a billion dollars for public school funding.

Michelle Ostrelich, Democrat, District 44 :
N/A

Rachel May, Democrat, District 48 :
I've been proud to help secure full funding for Foundation Aid in NYS, and I'm also committed to reviewing the formula by which those funds are distributed so that they truly reach those most in need. I also feel strongly that Community Schools are the way to address systemic problems like poverty, trauma, and homelessness among many of our children.

Diane Sare, Independent :
N/A