On Jan. 29, 2026, Senate Republican Leader Rob Ortt and the New York State Senate Republican Conference released the “An Affordable New York” report, calling for action to reduce insurance rates and address what they describe as a broader affordability crisis facing residents.
The report follows a series of roundtables held across the state and identifies high taxes, energy bills, housing, childcare, and insurance costs as key drivers of financial strain for New Yorkers. According to Ortt, “New Yorkers are facing an unsustainable affordability crisis (…) I have introduced legislation and support reforms that would drive down taxes, reduce the cost of housing, utilities, and health care premiums (…) fighting back against the crushing financial burden Albany has placed on everything from car insurance to utility bills (…) reducing energy costs and insurance rates are critical initiatives in addressing this crisis.”
According to the Senate Republican Conference, their new report highlights reducing energy costs and insurance rates as essential steps in tackling rising living expenses. The document recommends legislative action to lower insurance rates, cut taxes, reduce energy costs, and ease regulatory burdens on families and small businesses.
Among its recommendations are targeted reforms aimed at reducing property, casualty, and health insurance costs; increasing transparency in utility rate increases; and implementing measures to bring down housing and childcare expenses. Senate Republicans say these actions are necessary to stop outmigration from New York and retain both residents and businesses.
The report also urges the full Senate to consider the broader “Save New York” legislative agenda. The plan is presented as a comprehensive package intended to deliver relief on cost-of-living issues.
Ortt serves as Senate Republican Leader representing New York’s 62nd Senate District. Since his election in 2014 after serving in the State Assembly, he has focused his legislative career on fiscal responsibility, economic growth, and reducing living costs for families.
