By Rina Beder
NYS Assemblyman Steve Otis addressed The Local Summit’s program on January 13 ahead of Governor Kathy Hochul’s State of the State address, offering attendees a preview of issues likely to be addressed by the Governor and a deeper discussion of three primary policy areas: technology, the environment, and immigration.
As chair of the Assembly Science and Technology Committee for the past five years, Otis has taken a leading role in grappling with the rapid emergence of artificial intelligence and its implications. He spoke about the Governor’s intention to build on the Empire AI initiative, which brings together colleges and universities across New York to advance what he described as “AI for the public good.” Examples include applications in medical research and special education.
Otis emphasized that innovation must be paired with safeguards. In December, he passed legislation to strengthen labor protections for public-sector employees as AI becomes more prevalent in the workplace. He also underscored the importance of transparency, noting that the public should know what AI tools are being used and for what purposes. Additional proposals, he said, would push for broader disclosures and protections as the technology continues to evolve.
Another legislative achievement Otis highlighted was the EMS reform bill he sponsored with Senator Shelley Mayer, which the Governor signed into law in December. The bill allows for greater local control of emergency medical services to address challenges related to diminished services and difficulties recruiting and retaining EMS workers. “We do not believe in a one size fits all approach” said Otis, explaining that flexibility is essential given the wide variation in community needs. While the new law establishes a framework for reform, he acknowledged that funding streams remain unresolved.
Environmental concerns, particularly flooding and water infrastructure, was one of the themes of the discussion. Otis noted that the Governor is expected to announce an additional phase of the clean water grant program, with the hope that some funding will be devoted to stormwater management. He reminded attendees that in 2015 he helped create a funding program for municipalities to improve drinking water and sanitary sewer systems, easing the financial burden of infrastructure upgrades.
Speaking directly to the local area, Otis stressed the urgency of addressing flooding in the Village of Mamaroneck. “We are in Mamaroneck, no place more impacted by flooding and extreme storms,” he said. He explained that stormwater systems across New York State were not designed to handle the current volume and frequency of intense rainfall, requiring municipalities to increase system capacity. Otis pointed to funding secured through the State bond act and additional appropriations he and Senator Mayer advocated for, noting that Mamaroneck has been identified as a priority due to repeated flood impacts.
Immigration was another focus and a topic raised during the audience questions, with discussion focusing specifically on ICE activity and its impact on local communities. Otis spoke forcefully about recent federal enforcement actions, drawing a sharp distinction between immigration policy and what he described as militarized tactics. “What we are seeing is a military takeover of a city that is affecting everyone,” he said, referring to actions taken by ICE over the objections of local officials. He criticized what he called “thug type behavior” and argued that stronger checks and balances are needed where none currently exist.
Otis noted that he co-sponsored legislation aimed at preventing local participation in federal immigration enforcement. In Mamaroneck, he pointed out, the police department has made clear it does not cooperate with ICE, prioritizing public safety so victims and witnesses are not afraid to report crimes. Additional legislative proposals would make it illegal for ICE agents to wear masks, an issue Otis said has taken on new urgency.
Audience questions also touched on affordability and housing, particularly for firefighters and EMS volunteers struggling to remain in the community. Otis acknowledged that over time, housing stock has become less diversified and emphasized the need for more affordable housing, noting that some preference policies for these volunteers and employees are constrained by federal discrimination laws.
Transportation and safety along the Boston Post Road corridor were also discussed. Otis described ongoing coordination with Senator Mayer and the Department of Transportation to repave the road and improve traffic and pedestrian safety while managing rising costs and jurisdictional complexities.
Reflecting on his approach to public service, Otis said, “I may be in the State legislature, but I think like a Mayor.” He also praised The Local Summit for its role in community engagement, noting, “I wish every community I represented had a Summit. This is a great way to get information around in the community and for people to get together” said Otis.
“I love what I do and I am on a mission to get things done” Otis said in closing, “I pass over half of the bills I introduce each year and am big on quality control.”
The Larchmont-Mamaroneck Local Summit is an informal community council that seeks toa make a better life for the community by keeping it informed of major issues of concern. Our next meeting, on February 10 at 8 am at the Nautilus Diner in Mamaroneck, will discuss “AI:Uses, Abuses and Protections” For more information: https.//www.localsummitlm.org/ . To view recorded programs on LMC Media: https.//lmcmedia.org/ .
