While Gov. Kathy Hochul was highlighting affordability in New York City, clergy and community leaders in Buffalo were calling on the governor to take action to address the affordability crisis across the state.
They say that rising costs for food, housing and utilities are pushing families to the brink.
They also highlighted rising car insurance premiums, leading families to choose between essential coverage or basic household needs.
“This affordability crisis is crushing families who are doing everything right. That’s just wrong,” said Mark Talley, founder of Agents for Advocacy. “First it was food, then rent, and child care. Now car insurance rates in Western New York have skyrocketed, and it’s unacceptable. We’re calling on state leaders to step up, reform the system, and put working families first.”
Advocates say that fraudulent claims, including staged car crashes and fake medical bills, are among the factors causing the spike.
“People across Buffalo and across the state are hurting,” said Rev. James Lewis, president of the Buffalo/Niagara Chapter of NAN. “Every week, more families tell us they can’t keep up with rent, groceries, or their car insurance bills. Governor Hochul and Albany must deliver bold action to bring relief and restore hope to communities like ours.”
“New Yorkers deserve to live with dignity, not debt,” Rev. Lewis added. “We’re calling on our leaders to act – show us a plan not tomorrow, but today.”
Local leaders say that the affordability crisis isn’t just confined to Buffalo. They are calling it a statewide emergency that requires statewide solutions.