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Asm. Angelo J. Morinello
District 145
Republican
First elected 2017
Angelo J. Morinello (R-AD-145) holds a reliably Republican seat despite a district registration lean of D+5, with Democrats holding 34,198 registrations (37.3%) to Republicans' 29,775 (32.5%); his 2026 outlook ranges from Lean R in a favorable Democratic environment to Safe R in a favorable Republican environment, and his recent electoral margins of 22.6 points in 2024 and 27.0 points in 2022 reflect a district performing well to the right of its registration baseline. The district, centered in the Niagara Falls area of western New York, is predominantly white (80.9%), with a median household income of $70,494, a 13.9% poverty rate, and a 71.0% homeownership rate, indicating a working- and middle-class exurban or small-city character. First elected in 2017, Morinello has sponsored 40 bills in the 2025 session, with his heaviest concentration in Penal Law (6 bills), Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (4 bills), and State Finance (3 bills), alongside targeted local legislation under Niagara County (2 bills). The brief does not identify a committee chairmanship for Morinello, and no lobbying sector data is included in this profile.AI
Vulnerability Index AD-145
Base lean: R+12
Favorable D
Neutral
Favorable R
Scenario model: ±5pt national environment shift applied to district base lean (R+12). Base lean blends voter registration (40%) with recent contested general election margins (60%), using up to the last 4 general elections with margins under 40 points. Ratings: Safe D/R = 15+ pts, Likely = 8–14 pts, Lean = 3–7 pts, Toss-up = within 2 pts. Generic ballot from Silver Bulletin (Nate Silver), as of 5/1/2026. Not a prediction — reflects structural competitiveness under different cycle environments.
Electoral History AD-145
General Elections
| Year | Winner | Runner-up | Margin |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Angelo J. Morinello 61.3% (37,667) | Jeffrey Elder 38.7% (23,774) | 22.6pts |
| 2022 | Angelo J. Morinello 63.5% (30,131) | Douglas E. Mooradian 36.5% (17,347) | 27.0pts |
| 2020 | Angelo J. Morinello 100.0% (44,255) | Uncontested | — |
| 2018 | Angelo J. Morinello 100.0% (31,884) | Uncontested | — |
| 2016 | Angelo J. Morinello 54.6% (28,381) | John D. Ceretto 45.4% (23,609) | ⚡ 9.2pts |
| 2014 | John D. Ceretto 100.0% (23,240) | Uncontested | — |
| 2012 | John D. Ceretto 50.9% (25,936) | Robert M. Restaino 49.1% (24,976) | ⚡ 1.8pts |
| 2010 | Mark J. F. Schroeder 100.0% (34,894) | Uncontested | — |
| 2008 | Mark J. Schroeder 75.0% (37,563) | Dennis M. Marek 25.0% (12,551) | 50.0pts |
| 2006 | Mark J. Schroeder 77.9% (29,495) | Richard E. Zajac 22.1% (8,389) | 55.8pts |
| 2004 | Mark J. Schroeder 72.0% (37,853) | Richard A. Rydza 26.7% (14,022) | 45.3pts |
| 2002 | Brian Higgins 76.6% (30,375) | Richard A. Rydza 23.4% (9,259) | 53.2pts |
| 2000 | Brian M. Higgins 65.0% (33,235) | Marilynn J. Calhoun 35.0% (17,868) | 30.0pts |
| 1998 | Brian M. Higgins 45.2% (19,297) | Steven P. Mc Carville 32.2% (13,727) | 13.0pts |
| 1996 | Richard J. Keane 51.9% (25,311) | Justin A. Cross 48.1% (23,475) | ⚡ 3.8pts |
Primary Elections
| Year | Winner | Runner-up | Margin |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2012 (Working Families) | Robert M. Restaino 84.3% (43) | John Ceretto 15.7% (8) | 68.6pts |
Special Elections
| Year | Winner | Runner-up | Margin |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2012 | Michael P. Kearns 56.7% (7,593) | Christopher J. Fahey 43.3% (5,795) | 13.4pts |
Source: NYS Board of Elections certified results. ⚡ = margin under 10 pts. District history reflects 2022 redistricted boundaries.
Voter Registration
District 145 Profile
Population
132,557
Median income
$70,494
Median rent
$937
Homeownership
71.0%
Education (BA+)
31.5%
Poverty rate
13.9%
Uninsured rate
2.6%
Unemployment rate
6.2%
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates (2024).
Demographics
White
80.9%
Black
7.8%
Hispanic
4.2%
Asian
1.6%
Median age
44.0
Foreign born
4.8%
Limited English households
1.1%
Veterans
6.9%
Disability rate
15.6%
Commute Mode
Drive alone
76.6%
Public transit
1.4%
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Estimates (2024). Race and ethnicity figures may not sum to 100% — Hispanic/Latino is an ethnicity category that overlaps with racial groups.
Legislative Activity (2025–2026)
Bills sponsored
40
Floor debate appearances
25
Years in office
9
Bill sponsorship from NYS Open Legislation API. Joint hearing appearances from NYS Senate hearing transcripts.
Floor Session Activity 2025–2026
A00382-A
PASSED
2026-03-25
An act to amend the Racing, Pari-Mutuel Wagering and Breeding Law, in relation to advertising restrictions for mobile sports wagering licensees
The Assembly passed A00382-A, sponsored by Assemblyman Vanel, extending existing casino advertising restrictions to mobile sports wagering licensees. The bill requires truthful and transparent advertising, opt-out mechanisms for consumers, and mandates that the New York State gambling helpline (1-877-8-HOPENY) be clearly displayed throughout video advertisements. Vanel defended the New York-specific helpline requirement as necessary to track problem gambling data and connect New Yorkers to local providers. Debate revealed concerns from members Walsh and Jensen about the practical burden on companies running national or international advertisements, particularly for major sporting events. Assemblywoman Woerner supported the requirement, noting the state helpline connects callers to nearby providers in crisis situations. Assemblyman Morinello criticized the underlying sports betting law as fundamentally flawed, while Assemblyman Fitzpatrick raised concerns about advertising targeting young people and the lack of private right of action for families harmed by problem gambling. The bill passed without a recorded vote tally.
A06285
PASSED
2026-03-24
Mobile Sports Betting Monthly Invoice Bill
The Assembly passed a bill sponsored by Assemblymember Kassay requiring mobile sports betting apps to send monthly invoices to users detailing wagering amounts, winnings, losses, and betting habits, along with problem gambling hotline information. The bill takes effect January 1st following the Governor's signature. Kassay cited alarming statistics: $26 billion wagered in New York in 2025, a 26 percent spike in problem gambling hotline calls, and research suggesting 22 percent of bettors exhibit signs of problem gambling. She noted that minors are accessing betting apps through VPNs and becoming addicted at young ages. Supporters including Ms. Woerner cited expert testimony that providing wagering information helps change behavior. However, Assemblymember Morinello, drawing on his experience representing bookmakers, argued the invoices are ineffective because users already have access to betting information and the real problem is the addictive nature of mobile betting itself. He criticized the state's legalization of mobile betting as a "money grab" without consideration for families and youth. Fitzpatrick similarly opposed the bill, arguing the best solution is to prohibit mobile gambling for ages 18-25 and criticizing the state for promoting VLTs, marijuana, and mobile sports betting to young people. Despite the opposition, the bill passed.
A08702 / S08702
PASSED
2025-06-16
An act to amend subpart A of Part BB of Chapter 56 of the Laws of 2021 relating to establishing a COVID-19 Emergency Rental Assistance program and amending the State Finance Law relating to establishing a COVID-19 Emergency Rental Municipal Corporation Allocation Fund, in relation to extending the effectiveness of certain provisions thereof
The Assembly passed A08702, extending protections for tenants under the COVID-19 Emergency Rental Assistance Program by preventing landlords who refused ERAP payments from pursuing collection actions for covered rent. Sponsor Rosenthal framed the measure as emergency relief for unemployed tenants during the pandemic, noting the federal government funded ERAP nationwide. Assemblymember Morinello challenged the bill, arguing landlords had legitimate reasons to refuse ERAP—particularly the requirement to forgo rent increases for one year despite rising property taxes and utilities. Rosenthal countered that guaranteed annual rent payments should have been attractive. The Minority Conference voted against the measure while the Majority supported it. The bill takes effect immediately.
A00584-C
PASSED
2025-06-11
Judicial Candidate Cross-Endorsement Authorization - requires judicial candidates to obtain party authorization (Wilson-Pakula) to run in another party's primary
The Assembly passed legislation requiring judicial candidates to obtain party authorization before running in another party's primary, a requirement similar to those applied to other candidates under the Wilson-Pakula law. Sponsor Assemblyman Jacobson argued the bill ensures voters understand that candidates on a party line share that party's values, noting most voters decide based on party affiliation when unfamiliar with candidates. Supporters including Assemblywoman Lunsford contended judges already run on party lines, making them inherently political, and the bill simply clarifies voter expectations without further politicizing the judiciary. Opponents including Assemblyman Durso and Sempolinski argued the bill gives party committees gatekeeping power over judicial candidates and undermines the principle that judges should represent all parties and remain apolitical. Assemblyman Steck cited practical examples of judges abusing the current system by enrolling voters in minor parties without genuine affiliation. The bill passed on a slow roll call vote.
A04944
PASSED
2025-05-21
An act to amend the Penal Law, in relation to prohibiting the operation of uncrewed aircraft over school grounds or critical infrastructure
The Assembly passed A04944, sponsored by Asm. Tapia, which prohibits the operation of uncrewed aircraft over school grounds or critical infrastructure. The measure creates a Class B misdemeanor for a first offense and a Class A misdemeanor for subsequent offenses. Assemblywoman Walsh expressed support while noting concerns about potential ambiguity in the bill's language regarding what constitutes hovering or remaining above school grounds, which could lead to subjective application and unequal prosecution. She confirmed that school-authorized drone use, such as for school photography or clubs, would still be permitted with prior written consent. Assemblyman Morinello emphasized the bill's importance in protecting children from potential threats posed by drones over schoolyards.
A04649-A
PASSED
2025-05-05
An act to amend the Veterans' Services Law, in relation to Certificates of Honorable Separation from or services in the Armed Forces of the United States
A07617
PASSED
2025-05-05
An act to amend the Public Health Law, in relation to removing the prohibitions on patient participation in multiple transplant programs in New York State
The Assembly passed legislation removing prohibitions on patients participating in multiple transplant programs in New York State. Sponsored by Assemblywoman Peoples-Stokes and 18 co-sponsors, the bill addresses a critical gap in access to organ transplants for Medicaid patients, who under current law can only apply to one program and be on one wait list. Peoples-Stokes noted that approximately 8,000 New Yorkers are currently on transplant wait lists, with roughly 400 expected to die before receiving a transplant. The measure was championed by Dr. Kayler, a transplant surgeon at Erie County Medical Center, and supported by Donate Life New York. The bill allows patients to remove themselves from dependence on dialysis machines by expanding their opportunities to access kidney transplants across multiple programs.
S01548-B / A01502
PASSED
2025-03-26
An act to amend the General Business Law, in relation to the restriction of certain substances in menstrual products
The Assembly passed S01548-B, sponsored by Assemblywoman Rosenthal, banning toxic chemicals including lead, mercury, formaldehyde, and PFAS from menstrual products sold in New York. The bill distinguishes between intentionally added substances, which are immediately prohibited, and unintentionally present contaminants, for which the Department of Health and Department of Environmental Conservation must establish safe thresholds by 2029. During debate, Assemblywoman Walsh raised concerns about whether adequate scientific data exists on safe exposure levels for the restricted substances and questioned whether the measure might unnecessarily alarm consumers. However, she acknowledged the bill had improved from previous versions and praised the sponsor for addressing her questions. Assemblyman Morinello voiced support, calling the legislation timely given modern electronic surveillance capabilities. The bill builds on a 2019 law requiring menstrual product ingredient labeling.
A02565
2025-03-26
An act to amend the Criminal Procedure Law, in relation to establishing the New York Electronic Communications Privacy Act (NYECPA)
The Assembly debated A02565, the New York Electronic Communications Privacy Act, sponsored by Assemblyman Dinowitz, which would require law enforcement to obtain warrants before accessing electronic communications, personal device data, emails, text messages, and location information. The bill includes emergency exceptions when there is danger of death or serious injury. During debate, Assemblyman Molitor raised concerns about a provision requiring police to provide copies of obtained electronic materials to warrant targets, arguing this differs from standard search warrant procedures and could be problematic in cases involving child pornography. He also questioned whether the bill's requirement that the Attorney General publish reports on warrants issued without identified targets could compromise sensitive ongoing investigations. Assemblyman Morinello expressed support, calling the legislation timely given modern electronic surveillance capabilities, though noting the need for openness to future adjustments. The bill is the fifth iteration brought to the floor.
A03132-A
2024-06-10
An act to amend the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law, in relation to authorizing the direct intrastate and interstate shipment of liquor, cider, mead, and braggot and relates to direct shipments of wine
The Assembly debated A03132-A, which would authorize direct-to-consumer shipment of distilled spirits, cider, and mead to private residences, extending a privilege currently available only for wine. Sponsor Assemblywoman Lupardo argued the bill supports New York's micro-distilleries, cideries, and meaderies—capped at 75,000 gallons annually—and helps local farmers by allowing small producers to build customer bases before entering the traditional three-tiered distribution system. The bill was tested successfully during COVID with minimal enforcement issues, she said. However, Assemblyman Morinello raised concerns about large out-of-state producers potentially circumventing the production cap through subsidiaries, and cited public health advocates' worries about youth access to high-proof spirits (40% alcohol). He also referenced a 2020 Washington Post study finding an 80% failure rate by delivery companies to verify age. Assemblyman Ra questioned whether the 75,000-gallon cap was appropriately calibrated, noting the largest New York farm distilleries produce only 4,200-19,000 gallons, and expressed concerns about enforcement based on his own experience with unattended wine deliveries. Lupardo countered that the State Liquor Authority would closely monitor compliance and that local producers welcomed competition, confident their award-winning products using New York farm goods would prevail in the market.
A08898-B
PASSED
2024-06-10
Authorizing the City of Niagara Falls to discontinue the use of certain parklands
A03132-A
2024-06-07
An act to amend the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law, in relation to authorizing the direct intrastate and interstate shipment of liquor, cider, mead, and braggot and relates to direct shipments of wine
The Assembly debated A03132-A, which would authorize direct-to-consumer shipment of distilled liquor, cider, and mead to private residences in-state and out-of-state, extending privileges currently available only for wine. Sponsor Assemblywoman Lupardo argued the bill supports micro-distilleries, cideries, and meaderies—most producing well below the 75,000-gallon annual cap—while supporting New York farmers and allowing small producers to eventually enter the three-tiered distribution system. The bill would require age verification (ID check and signature) through common carriers like UPS and FedEx, mirroring successful COVID-era wine shipment protocols. Critics including Assemblyman Ra and Assemblyman Morinello raised concerns about the production cap being significantly higher than actual New York distillery output, the potential for large national brands like Jim Beam to create subsidiaries to circumvent restrictions, and public health concerns from MADD and alcohol counselors about youth access to high-proof spirits. A Washington Post study cited by Morinello found an 80% failure rate in age verification at delivery points. Lupardo countered that the State Liquor Authority would closely monitor compliance and that local producers welcome competition, noting New York's award-winning spirits and farm products give local distillers a competitive advantage. The debate remained ongoing at the end of the transcript segment.
A08898-B / S08898-B
PASSED
2024-06-07
Authorizing the City of Niagara Falls to discontinue the use of certain parklands
A03132-A
2024-06-07
An act to amend the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law, in relation to authorizing the direct intrastate and interstate shipment of liquor, cider, mead, and braggot and relates to direct shipments of wine
The Assembly debated A03132-A, which would authorize direct-to-consumer shipment of distilled spirits, cider, and mead to private residences, extending a privilege currently available only for wine. Sponsor Assemblywoman Lupardo argued the bill supports New York's micro-distilleries, cideries, and meaderies—capped at 75,000 gallons annual production—by allowing them to reach customers online and eventually graduate into the traditional three-tiered distribution system. She emphasized the bill was safely tested during COVID and that the State Liquor Authority will strictly monitor compliance. However, Assemblyman Morinello raised concerns about youth access to high-proof spirits (40% alcohol), citing a Washington Post study showing an 80% failure rate by delivery companies to verify age, and warned the bill could undermine the three-tiered system that employs thousands of workers. Assemblyman Ra questioned whether the 75,000-gallon cap is too high—noting New York's largest farm distilleries produce only 4,200-19,000 gallons—and expressed concern that major out-of-state producers like Jim Beam could use corporate subsidiaries to circumvent the restrictions. Lupardo countered that local producers welcome competition and that New York's award-winning products will prevail in the market. The debate remained ongoing at the end of the transcript segment.
A08898-B / S08898-B
PASSED
2024-06-07
Authorizing the City of Niagara Falls to discontinue the use of certain parklands
A9122
PASSED
2024-06-05
Requiring certified interpreters for non-English speaking deponents in criminal complaints and informations
The Assembly passed legislation requiring certified interpreters or qualified translators to translate statements from non-English speaking deponents in criminal informations. Sponsored by Assemblywoman Cruz, the bill aims to ensure accuracy of allegations and protect both victims' and defendants' rights throughout the criminal justice process. Supporters argued the measure is necessary in New York's diverse, multilingual population and does not impose unfunded mandates, as OGS contracts for interpreter services already exist. Opponents, including rural representatives, raised concerns about implementation burdens on police departments, potential delays in obtaining interpreters in areas with poor cell service, and questioned whether existing court protections at arraignment and trial stages render the requirement unnecessary. The bill passed on a party-line vote, with Republicans generally opposed and Democrats supporting.
A08333-A
PASSED
2024-06-05
Personalized Handguns Certification and Testing Requirements
The Assembly passed legislation directing the Division of Criminal Justice Services to investigate the technological viability of personalized handguns and establish testing criteria if the technology is deemed viable. Sponsor Assemblymember Bores argued personalized handguns reduce gun trafficking, prevent accidental shootings in homes, and protect law enforcement from having their weapons used against them, citing over 10,000 guns stolen in New York between 2012-2017 and statistics on police officers shot with their own weapons. Bores noted the NRA and NSSF do not oppose government research on the technology as long as there are no mandates, and that personalized handguns are already being sold in the U.S. and tested by law enforcement agencies in Kansas and Texas. Opponents Assemblymembers Morinello and DiPietro argued the technology is not yet sufficiently advanced and reliable, calling the bill premature. Assemblymember Byrnes opposed the bill but raised a technical concern that any research must account for multi-owner handguns where multiple legal owners possess the same firearm.
A9122
PASSED
2024-06-05
Requiring certified interpreters for non-English speaking deponents in criminal complaints and informations
The Assembly passed legislation requiring certified interpreters or qualified translators to translate statements from non-English speaking deponents in criminal informations. Sponsored by Assemblywoman Cruz, the bill ensures that allegations made to police by non-English speakers are accurately translated before being used in criminal charges. The measure does not prohibit arrests on initial complaints but requires certification when complaints are converted to informations for misdemeanor prosecution. Supporters argued the bill protects both victims and defendants by ensuring accuracy throughout the criminal process and leverages existing OGS interpreter contracts. Opponents from rural areas raised concerns about practical implementation, including potential delays in areas with limited interpreter access and poor cell service, and argued the requirement could burden smaller police departments. The bill passed on a party-line vote, with Republicans largely opposed and Democrats supporting the measure.
A08333-A
PASSED
2024-06-05
Personalized Handguns - requiring Division of Criminal Justice Services to investigate and certify technological viability of personalized handguns
The Assembly passed A08333-A, directing the Division of Criminal Justice Services to investigate the technological viability of personalized handguns and establish testing criteria within 180 days if viable. Sponsor Assemblyman Bores argued personalized handguns reduce gun trafficking (over 10,000 guns stolen in New York 2012-2017), prevent accidental shootings, and protect law enforcement from having weapons used against them. He noted the NRA and NSSF do not oppose government research on the technology as long as there are no mandates, and that personalized handguns are already being sold in the U.S. as of 2023. Opponents Assemblymen Morinello and DiPietro argued the technology is not yet perfected and reliable, making the bill premature and a waste of Division resources. Assemblywoman Byrnes opposed the bill but raised concerns about whether multi-user fingerprint technology could accommodate co-owned handguns. Bores responded that multi-user fingerprint technology already exists. The Republican Conference opposed the bill; the Majority Conference voted in the affirmative.
A05394 / S06720
PASSED
2023-06-21
Interpretation of accusatory instruments and supporting depositions for persons with limited English proficiency
The Assembly passed legislation requiring accurate interpretation and certified translation of accusatory instruments and depositions from persons with limited English proficiency. Sponsored by Assemblywoman Cruz, the bill ensures that statements made to law enforcement by non-English speakers cannot be used in criminal proceedings unless accompanied by an affidavit from a qualified interpreter affirming the accuracy of the translation. The measure addresses concerns that mistranslations could lead to wrongful convictions or successful appeals. However, the bill faced bipartisan criticism from members concerned about practical implementation. Assemblymen Morinello, Goodell, and Angelino raised concerns that requiring certified translations before any use of statements—including for obtaining search warrants or dispatching officers—could impede time-sensitive law enforcement operations, particularly in rural areas with limited interpreter availability. Assemblyman Chang supported the bill, noting its importance for his Brooklyn district where many constituents are Asian immigrants with limited English proficiency. The Republican Conference voted generally in opposition, while the Majority Conference voted in favor.
A05930-B
PASSED
2023-06-21
An act to repeal Section 926-o of the General Municipal Law relating to the Town of Niagara Industrial Development Agency
A02878-A
PASSED
2023-06-20
An act to amend the Criminal Procedure Law, in relation to motions to vacate judgment
The Assembly passed A02878-A, sponsored by Asm. Aubry, amending the Criminal Procedure Law to allow people previously convicted of crimes—including those who pleaded guilty—to seek review of their convictions for potential wrongful conviction relief. The bill clarifies that only decriminalized convictions are vacated, specifies applicable Federal court jurisdiction, permits pro se applicants to request assigned counsel, and eliminates certain felony expansion language. Supporters argued the measure expedites justice for the actually innocent and addresses cases where wrongful convictions were discovered years after imprisonment, reducing costly state restitution. Opponents contended existing CPL provisions already address all wrongful conviction categories, warned the bill would overburden courts and eliminate finality for victims, and allow trial courts to improperly review appellate decisions. Asm. McGowan voted against the measure, citing its breadth and negative impact on crime victims and case finality. The Democratic majority supported the bill as progressive criminal justice reform.
A07409-A
PASSED
2023-06-10
An act to amend Chapter 584 of the Laws of 1996 relating to incorporation of the Wheatfield Volunteer Firefighter's Benevolent Association and providing for its powers and duties, in relation to its purpose and the use of foreign fire insurance premium taxes
A01029-C
2023-06-09
An act to amend the Criminal Procedure Law, the Executive Law, the Correction Law, the Judiciary Law and the Civil Rights Law, in relation to automatic sealing of certain convictions
The Assembly debated A01029-C, sponsored by Assemblywoman Cruz, which would automatically seal criminal records for individuals who have completed their sentences and remained crime-free for three years (misdemeanors) or eight years (felonies). The bill would affect approximately 2.3 million New Yorkers and eliminate the need for costly, time-consuming applications currently required under existing law. Assemblywoman Simon spoke in favor, citing the case of Gregory Pierce, a 71-year-old who has been denied housing and employment despite rehabilitation. Assemblyman Morinello opposed the measure, arguing it removes individual agency and responsibility by providing automatic relief rather than making existing processes more accessible. An amendment by Assemblyman Reilly to extend sealing to police and corrections officer disciplinary records was ruled not germane and defeated on a party-line vote. The bill excludes Class A felonies carrying life sentences and maintains exceptions for law enforcement, courts, and employers of vulnerable populations.
A07276
PASSED
2023-06-09
Amending Chapter 430 of the Laws of 1963 relating to incorporation of the Grand Island Volunteer Firemen's Benevolent Association
Source: Official NY Assembly floor session transcripts (Granicus). AI-processed. Includes sessions from 2023 onward where transcripts are available.
Bill Focus Areas 2025–2026
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Grouped by law section from sponsored Assembly bills. Source: NYS Open Legislation API.
Lobbying Activity
No lobbying disclosures on record for this member in the available dataset (JCOPE filings targeting Assembly members).
Source: NY Commission on Ethics and Lobbying in Government via data.ny.gov.