Staten Island Reporter

Assemblyman Sam Pirozzolo (R,C-Staten Island) has recently introduced a bill aimed at reforming legislative terms in New York state. Sponsored by Pirozzolo, A.10108 proposes an amendment to section 2 of article 3 of the New York state constitution. The amendment seeks to extend the terms of members of the Senate and Assembly to six years, while limiting them to only three terms.

The escalating costs of running elections in the U.S. present a significant burden to taxpayers. These expenses are driven by increased campaign spending and the need for maintenance and upgrades to election infrastructure. These costs directly affect taxpayers and place strain on the state's finances. Additional hidden expenses related to poorly managed elections further exacerbate this issue.

Addressing these monetary requirements is crucial, especially considering their impact on taxpayers. Ensuring that election financing is administered effectively and fairly can help alleviate this financial strain. By maintaining voter rights and investing in our electoral infrastructure, we can strengthen our democracy.

The proposed bill aims to provide legislators with longer terms, allowing them more time to delve into complex issues and focus on long-term projects. With fewer elections due to longer terms, candidates would spend less time and fewer resources on fundraising and campaigning activities. This would allow them more time for direct engagement with constituents and focus on their legislative duties.

This shift could lead to a more efficient allocation of resources, enabling elected officials to prioritize their constituents' needs over campaign financing demands.

“As taxpayers shoulder the growing burden of election costs, it's imperative we prioritize transparency, efficiency and fairness in our electoral process. Every dollar spent on elections should be a dollar invested wisely, ensuring our democracy remains accessible and accountable to all. We must work tirelessly to safeguard the integrity of our electoral system while being mindful of the financial impact on hardworking taxpayers,” said Pirozzolo.