After numerous conversations with New York families, local elected officials, business owners and other hardworking taxpayers, I’ve decided that I will vote against the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act when it comes up for a vote in the House today.

I want to vote for a tax cut, but the complete removal of the deduction for state income taxes and the limitation on deductions for local property taxes will impact New York families more severely than taxpayers in other states. The effects this bill will have on New York taxpayers will cost them more, and I cannot support it.

When there is plan that is a tax cut for the voters of my district and is good for New York state, I will vote for it. New Yorkers should not become collateral damage in the federal tax debate because Albany refuses to improve the tax and business climate.

Thank you for your continued support,

John