Taxation is a huge issue facing all the taxpayers in the District and throughout all of New York State.
I will work to reduce the burden of unfunded mandates on local governments and taxpayers by examining these mandates and identifying ways to reduce waste, fraud and abuse.
For example, Medicaid is the single largest unfunded mandate facing the five north country counties. Medicaid has expanded tremendously but has not relieved the care and cost gap. Our per capita costs exceed that of other states. Robert will work to increase efficiency in the delivery of services and thereby reduce overall costs.
I am not in favor of a single-payor healthcare system. The system, as currently proposed, is simply too expensive.
I am not in favor legalizing recreational marijuana just to increase tax revenue. I prefer a "wait and see" approach as we evaluate the impact on states that have implemented recreational marijuana. My personal motto is -- "Say no to dope, it's a slippery slope."
I am in favor of medical marijuana for those who find relief from their suffering by using the product.