News from Assemblyman Goldfeder

April 1, 2016 In This Issue A Budget for New York Bigger and Better at Aqueduct Sandy Relief Bills MMA Ban KO'd _______________ Office Locations   Howard Beach    162-38 Cross Bay Blvd. Howard Beach, NY 11414 718-641-8755 Rockaway Beach 95-16 Rockaway Beach Blvd.  Rockaway Beach, NY 11693   718-945-9550   Albany LOB 542  Albany, NY 12248 518-455-4292 Quick Links   ______  News   Photos YouTube  NYS Open Budget Find Your Flood Risk CROM Physical Culture Dear Neighbor,    After months of work, many late nights and more than a few cups of coffee, New York State has an agreement on a budget for 2016! This year's budget includes support for every student and increased funding for safety and security at both public and non-public schools. We have also secured a much-needed tax break for our middle class families. Most importantly, thanks to these negotiations, the MTA has committed to a feasibility study of the Rockaway Beach Rail Line. Every community agrees that reactivating the line is the best way to cut commute times, grow our economy, and improve the environment by taking thousands of cars off the road. I look forward to working with the MTA as they complete the study in 2017. You can stay up to date with community news and daily updates by following me on Facebook and Twitter. Stay Strong,   Major Improvement at Aqueduct    For years, Resorts World has been a strong community partner and a major employer for our families. With this year's budget, the casino at Aqueduct is about to grow even bigger. I'm proud to announce we have approved the installation of 1,000 new video lottery terminals (VLTs) on top of the 5,000 slots currently in place. This will generate more revenue for our local schools and ensure Aqueduct's continued success for years to come. Resorts World is the perfect partner for responsible growth and community success, and Aqueduct is the perfect place to make that happen. Protecting Flood Victims   Sandy completely devastated our communities, butunbearable red tape and the fraud committed by insurance adjusters made us victims twice over. This week, the Assembly passed a package of bills I sponsored that will speed flood claims and hold insurers accountable. This will cut down on abuse and protect families when they need help the most. VIDEO: Striking a Blow for MMA    Albany's chokehold on Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is almost over! Last week, the Assembly voted to legalize the hugely popular sport. This will make MMA safer for both fighters and fans, as well as boost our local economy. You can watch me explain my vote by telling the story of Sarah and Chris Romulo of CROM Physical Culture, a thriving local gym that refuses to let Sandy or any other obstacle knock them down!