Colin Schmitt is back from his first legislative session in Albany. But he has no humorous anecdotes to share about getting lost on his way to the chambers. He knows his way around the capital city. He’s been there with Homeland Security and as an assistant to two former state legislators.
On Monday, July 23, the Assemblyman is in his office in Washingtonville, but he’s getting ready to go away again — this time to Camp Edwards in Massachusetts with his National Guard unit.
He’s devoted his morning to answering emails. “It’s a good way to get a pulse on what’s going on,” he told us. Some people have asked about free events, while others have wanted his recommendations on agriculture.
During his time in Albany, the Assemblyman has shown a willingness to share his opinion. He can give you the statistics, but they don’t tell the whole story. He sponsored or co-sponsored 35 bills that have passed the Assembly. These included banning the use of PFOS in firefighting, making the tax cap permanent, and allocating $350 million to counteract water contamination. He’s also supported equal pay for women, and bills that address domestic violence and maternal depression.
But what he also considers important is the legislation he stopped — or at least temporarily derailed. It shows the new Assemblyman standing up for what he believes.
He told us that the Senate passed legislation that would have automatically provided voting rights to anyone who filled out a government form — including people who weren’t citizens.
Mr. Schmitt didn’t think it was right. He was opposed to non-citizens being allowed to vote. “We have to do something,” he said to Nicole Malliotakis (an Assemblywoman who represents parts of New York City).
The two of them texted and called their colleagues; they spoke to reporters out in the corridor, and then held a press conference in front of the Capitol.
The action, whether you agree with it or not, seemed to get results. The controlling party left the floor for a conference that lasted several hours. “It’s because of you,” several representatives said to Mr. Schmitt.
The bill was pulled and its opponent was happy, feeling that his district’s values and voice had been represented. “The only time you fail,” he told us, “is when you give up.”
