This week, Assemblymember Jonathan Jacobson (D-Newburgh) and Senator James Skoufis (D- Hudson Valley) passed two bills requested by the Town of Newburgh.

Jacobson said, “I am very pleased that we were able to introduce and pass this legislation for the Town of Newburgh so quickly. Senator Skoufis and I work well together and these bills are an example of the kind of legislation we can pass for the benefit of residents in our shared municipalities.”

A7701/S5792 creates a special district in which the owner of the Ridge Hill Valley development area can undertake road and other improvements.

A7705/S5453 authorizes the Town to impose a hotel and motel tax that would help alleviate the tax burden on residents by imposing a tax on “any facility consisting of rentable units and providing lodging on an overnight basis,” including Bed and Breakfasts and Air BnBs, which are primarily used by non-residents.

Skoufis said, “These bills, both requested by the Town of Newburgh, look out for our local taxpayers. Specifically, the bill authorizing a hotel tax will raise revenue from out-of-towners to help offset taxes paid by Newburgh residents. I was proud to work with Assemblymember Jacobson to ensure that these bills get through the full Legislature and I look forward to continuing to work together to deliver for our constituents.”

Town of Newburgh Supervisor Gil Piaquadio said, “The Town of Newburgh Town Board has been seeking this hotel/motel tax for over 10 years. This tax will help our local tax payers with the additional revenue being generated overwhelmingly by visitors to the area. I want to thank Assemblymember Jacobson and Senator Skoufis for this bill.”

Both bills are Home Rule bills, meaning they are enacted into law once they pass the Senate and Assembly and do not need to be signed by the Governor.