NEW REPORT: NEW YORK HAS HIGHEST PROPERTY TAXES IN NATION, STATE CITED FOR BAD BUSINESS CLIMATE

Assemblyman Reilly contributed to “dubious distinction”
with votes to eliminate STAR property tax rebate checks and hike job-killing taxes

A startling new study by the Tax Foundation reveals New Yorkers continue to pay some of the highest property taxes in the United States.

The Tax Foundation also reported that New York had the second worst business tax climate in the nation – an ominous sign for anyone worried about growing a business and finding or keeping a job.

These reports are on the heels of news that some homeowners are seeing an increase to their school property tax bills as a result of a reduction in STAR exemptions. This is on top of the elimination of their STAR property tax rebate checks which, on average, saved homeowners $386 and seniors $458 off their property tax bills.

This year, Assemblyman Bob Reilly (D-Colonie, Clifton Park and Halfmoon) voted for state budget bill A.153-C which eliminated the STAR property tax rebate checks. Reilly also failed to pass a tax cap to limit future property tax increases or a plan to end unfunded state mandates that lead to increased local property taxes.

Meanwhile, Reilly contributed to New York’s bottom of the barrel business climate with his legislative record. Reilly voted for state budget bill A.157-B — the largest tax hike in New York State history ($5.7 billion).

Even Governor Paterson admitted on September 23rd that due to the high taxes and fees passed in Albany, “we’ve probably lost jobs and driven people out of the state.”

“It’s a no brainer. The elimination of STAR rebate checks by Assemblyman Reilly has contributed to New York’s dubious distinction of having some of the highest property taxes in the nation,” said Kathleen Hennessey, Spokeswoman for the New York Republican Assembly Campaign Committee (RACC).
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