As we begin a new century, I wanted to take this opportunity to wish you and your families a Happy New Year, and to outline my legislative priorities for the year 2000.

New York State continues to enjoy unprecedented growth, tax cuts, and record levels of spending for day care, health care, education and local revitalization projects. I am pleased to report that the long term outlook is overwhelmingly positive for all of our state's residents and businesses.

The highlight of my 1999 legislative session was the enactment of my anti-stalking legislation which clearly defines and criminalizes the act of stalking for the first time in New York State history. Hailed by women's groups and law enforcement agencies, this historic law offers greater protection and security for all stalking victims.

Several initiatives I undertook in 1999 were passed by the senate, and I look forward to seeing their passage in the assembly in 2000. In the interests of protecting our children, I sponsored legislation to restrict access by children to violent video games, a measure which has bipartisan support. In addition, my anti-gang legislation would increase the penalties for gang recruitment on school property, and would establish a networked statewide database to assist law enforcement in tracking gang members. I also authored New York's "Anti-Weapons of Mass Destruction" act designed to minimize the threat of bio-terrorist attacks, and I will also continue to support and fight for pay equity and enforceable pesticide notification legislation.

The new year presents many challenges and opportunities for all of us. I look forward to once again representing your interests in Albany and as always, I welcome your comments and suggestions on legislation affecting you, your family and your community.

Michael Balboni

State Senator