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Stephen Saland

Street Address: Poughkeepsie, New York

Race: Senate District 41 State legislator

More Senate District 41 State legislator candidates: Terry Gipson | Neil DiCarlo |

Political and civic experience: • New York State Assembly: 1980-1990 • New York State Senator, 41st District: 1991-present • Chairman of the Senate Committee on Codes: 2011-present • Prior Chairman of the Senate Education Committee, Chairman of the Senate Children and Families Committee, Chairman of the Majority Steering Committee, and Deputy Majority Leader for State/Federal Relations • Vice Chairman of the Senate Majority Conference • National Conference of State Legislatures, President: 2001-2002

Age: 69

Family: Wife - Linda; four sons; five grandchildren

Residency: Poughkeepsie, New York

Incumbent?: Yes

Ballot lines:

Education: B.A. - State University at Buffalo; J.D. - Rutgers Law School

Occupation: New York State Senator - 41st District

Facebook: http://facebook.com/steve.saland

Why are you running for office or seeking re-election?
Unlike my opponents, I’ve been an active member of this community and I know its needs. As the current Senator, I’ve worked to forge relationships with local, state and federal officials, regardless of party, and I’ve earned their trust and respect. As a result, it’s paved the way to countless achievements that have improved the quality of life here in the Hudson Valley. Residents deserve to be represented by an individual who puts taxpayers’ best interests first; who has proven to be a strong voice for them; and who knows how to get results – I don’t just talk about job creation, I’ve created jobs. I’m proud my accomplishments as State Senator have had a positive impact on the region and the State, and I look forward to building on the relationships that I’ve made to further reduce taxes, protect our families and community, and bring jobs to the area.

What in your personal, civic or professional experience recommends your election or return to office?
I run proudly as a candidate with an experienced and accomplished record as a town official, Assemblyman, and Senator. I have successfully passed over 400 pieces of legislation and I am looking forward to continuing my work of promoting job growth, lowering taxes, and easing mandates for residents of this district. I have proudly passed landmark legislation on domestic violence and child protection, while also securing important job development monies for colleges in our region. I continue to strive for a full repeal of the MTA payroll tax and associated fees, and I have been a constant advocate for the so-called “quarter-pounders” who bear the full burden of the MTA’s cost, but have unequal representation on its board. I have appreciated the opportunity to give a voice to taxpayers, vulnerable populations, and families in our district, and I look forward to continuing this work in the future.

What would be your top three priorities if you are elected or re-elected?
a. Jobs: I will continue to work to offer incentives to stimulate private sector job growth through 
lower energy costs and tax credits, as well as aid to regional economic development centers so they may better assist local businesses and reduce onerous regulatory burdens.
b. Lowering Taxes/Mandate Relief: Full repeal of MTA payroll tax; continue to reduce property 
taxes and reinstate STAR Rebates, ease unfunded mandates.
c. Streamlining Government: Much more can be done to reduce the cost of supporting 
government, particularly State Authorities which have historically operated under bloated budgets and with little oversight. Restructuring the Authorities so there is more transparency and accountability should translate into billions in savings for taxpayers.