Gaughan proposes downsizing state legislature
Downsizing advocate Kevin Gaughan is continuing his mission to let the people decide when it comes to the size of government. YNN's Kaitlyn Lionti tells us about Gaughan's latest endeavor and how he says it could benefit residents statewide.
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BUFFALO, N.Y. -- He's had success reducing the size of government on a local level in Western New York, and now, downsizing advocate Kevin Gaughan has his sights set on the state.
"My research shows that the New York State Legislature is among the largest, and is the highest paid legislature in the nation. We have 212 legislators between the Assembly and the Senate, and the sad fact is, as every Western New Yorker knows, even with that great number of representatives, very few of them have voice, and as a result, we don't have a voice," said Gaughan.
He says his proposal to reduce the State Senate from 62 to 50 members, and the State Assembly from 150 to 125 members, would save tax payers $37 million a year, among other benefits.
As Governor Cuomo's budget is unveiled Tuesday, Gaughan says now is the time to act.
"We're going to have a statewide conversation that for the first time, and quite rightfully so, is going to include laying off tens of thousands of state workers. Closing more parks, closing more beaches, eroding the quality of life of every state resident, and against that backdrop, it seems to me that before we eliminate full-time state workers, we should eliminate part-time politicians," he said.
Gaughan is looking to the Senate first and he hopes to see a referendum this November. He has already drafted a law, and now plans to travel around the state to try and organize supporters.
Gaughan said,"What I'm trying to do is create a broad coalition across this great state of New York, but beginning right here in our community in Western New York, in support of this so we can compel the state legislature to just let people decide."
He also sent a letter to the senators asking for their stance on downsizing. Their answers will be posted online.
On the Web:
LetPeopleDecide.org