Welcome to the Friends of Assemblyman David R. Townsend website.

Since my election to the state Assembly, I’ve been a leading voice in urging reform of the outdated and exclusionary type of government practiced in Albany. This year, once again, government reform has topped my list of legislative priorities.

Time and again, I have recounted the consequences that late budgets, state debt and government inefficiency have on New York state. From uncertainty for local governments and school districts, to increased costs for contractors and service providers, Albany’s dysfunctional process takes a toll on our economy. It also undermines efforts to improve other areas of public policy, such as education and criminal justice.

With New York state facing a $5 billion to $6 billion budget deficit, we cannot afford another year without meaningful reform. That is why I am demanding action on legislation I sponsored to “fix” our state’s antiquated Medicaid system, strengthen the state’s credit worthiness, boost the state economy and help avoid additional tax hikes.

This year, as in the past, the Senate has adopted reform legislation. The governor has expressed a willingness to enact comprehensive reforms. It is time for the Assembly Majority to follow the lead of my Minority colleagues and put aside partisan politics in exchange for meaningful reform.