Affordability
Monica is committed to reducing the cost of living, opposing new taxes, and championing measures that address the affordability crisis. During her tenure in the State Legislature, Senator Martinez has voted against new taxes 178 times. She has proudly advocated for and supported making the property tax cap permanent, as well as proposals directing the Public Service Commission to set standards for payment plans established by utility companies in the state.
Enhancing Labor Protections and Tier 6 Reform
As a former union member, Monica has been steadfast in her support for labor protections, voting in support and advocating for a slate of retirement benefit reforms designed to improve plans for many New York employees, as well as long-sought Tier 6 reforms in the state budget. This includes critical investments into the Workforce Development Institute, which provides training and connects New Yorkers with good-paying jobs, and crucial funding for Statewide Youthbuild programs and apprenticeship programs across sectors throughout the state.
Education
As a former teacher and principal, Monica understands the detrimental impact budget cuts can have on our students, that is why Monica has dedicated to fighting against any reductions in school aid and has successfully restored funding to Suffolk County schools and implemented Universal Pre-K funding to allow school districts throughout the state to serve at least 90% of eligible four-year-olds.
Improving our Water Quality
As State Senator, Monica championed the Suffolk County Water Quality Restoration Act, which establishes a dedicated fund to improve water quality by reducing excess nitrogen—a contaminant in Long Island's sole source of drinking water. Excess nitrogen contributes to toxic algal blooms, leading to low oxygen levels, fish die-offs, and degraded wetlands and marine habitats. This issue can be addressed through expanded sewers and upgraded septic systems. With the bill passed by the Legislature, the choice will be presented to voters as a proposition on the November ballot, giving Suffolk County residents the opportunity to safeguard vital water resources and protect public health.
Public Safety
Monica is deeply committed to public safety and supporting law enforcement. She secured $350 million for gun violence prevention programs and sponsored legislation to make fentanyl testing strips more accessible to combat the opioid crisis. Monica successfully allocated funding to expand youth programs through the Suffolk County Police Athletic League as well as equipment for the Suffolk County Police Department to improve investigations. Additionally, she successfully acquired funding for the Suffolk County Sheriff’s START program, which helps incarcerated individuals transition back into society.
Monica has backed key legislation to raise the earnings limit for retired law enforcement officers and improve retirement benefits for police and firefighters. She has proudly supported measures to protect SUNY police officers' health and ensure fair labor agreements for correctional officers and other law enforcement personnel. Monica remains steadfast in her dedication to law enforcement, working tirelessly to ensure they have the resources and support they need to keep our communities safe.
Seniors
Monica Martinez takes great pride in being a strong advocate for seniors' rights. She has consistently supported measures to improve healthcare and living conditions for older adults, including voting to increase Medicaid reimbursement rates for hospital inpatient services, nursing homes, and assisted living programs. Her commitment extends to securing $8.4 million in funding for the Housing Opportunities Program for the Elderly (RESTORE), which helps senior homeowners address emergencies and code violations. Additionally, Monica supported a $9.3 million increase in funding for the Expanded In-Home Services for the Elderly Program (EISEP), which enhances access to personal care services that allow seniors to maintain their independence at home.