Saratoga Standard

Assemblyman Matt Simpson has expressed his concerns regarding the imposition of mandates by unelected officials in New York, which he claims are bypassing the Legislature and affecting the cost of living. He specifically addressed a recent proposal requiring automatic fire sprinkler systems in all newly constructed homes, describing it as an example of administrative overreach.

"While fire sprinklers may enhance safety, forcing this mandate on new home construction is a costly overreach that threatens affordability," Simpson stated. He emphasized that such policies could further increase housing prices at a time when families are already facing rising costs.

Simpson argued that decisions about including fire sprinklers should be made by homeowners and builders rather than Albany bureaucrats. "Mandates like this strip away consumer choice, stifle affordability and exacerbate the state’s ongoing affordability crisis," he said.

He concluded by calling for relief from excessive costs and regulations for New York families, urging resistance against unfunded mandates that he believes ignore the Legislature and impose burdens on residents. "We must push back against these unfunded mandates that disregard the Legislature and burden New Yorkers," Simpson asserted.