New Yorkers Try Secession Again

My Champlain Valley: Proposal would divide New York into 3 self-governing regions

The proposal, supported by Hawley, would divide New York into three separate governments: The “New York Region,” the “Montauk Region” and the “New Amsterdam Region,” which includes all of upstate New York. Lawmakers said the goal behind the bill is to better serve the people of New York.

“The rest of New York State is totally under the thumb of New York City,” Republican Assemblyman David DiPietro said. “New York City controls every dollar and every aspect that happens in Western New York. It’s a totally different culture [here] than it is in New York City.”

The proposal, however, faces a financial battle, particularly because much of New York State’s revenue comes from the city.

“I think there’s a lot of questions that come up when it from a financial perspective,” Republican Assemblyman Philip Palmesano said. “15 to 20-percent of our state revenue right now comes from Wall Street. We have to take that into consideration.

The funny part is, I bet Wall Street would rather be taxed by the New Amsterdam Region. Additionally, a bear market will dent those revenues. It would be extremely short-sighted, high revenues or not, to vote down freedom over a funding issue that can be solved. I have zero respect for people who sell out their freedom for money, be they New Yorkers or Quebecois. The Founding Fathers pledged their lives, treasure and Sacred Honor for liberty and self-determination. If I was running this effort, I would offer to forego the Wall Street revenue. I would buy support for the bill, rather than worry about losing the revenue!

As for practicality, this would not require Congressional approval because it creates autonomous zones within the state, and wouldn't impact the Congresssional and Senate represenation.