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Asm. Joseph Sempolinski
District 148
Republican
First elected 2025
Joseph Sempolinski represents AD-148, a deeply Republican district carrying an R+25 partisan lean, where he won his first Assembly election in 2024 with a 38.7-point margin over Daniel J. Brown (65.9% to 27.2%); his 2026 vulnerability model rates the seat Safe R across all electoral scenarios. The district is anchored by a voter registration breakdown of 47.1% Republican to 22.3% Democrat, with a predominantly white (90.7%) and homeowning (76.9%) population of 130,604, a median household income of $61,087, and a poverty rate of 17.6%, reflecting a rural or small-city character in western New York. Sempolinski sponsored 59 bills in his first session, with primary focus areas spanning Penal law (5 bills), Environmental Conservation (4 bills), Tax (4 bills), Criminal Procedure (3 bills), Family Court Act (3 bills), Social Services (3 bills), and Cattaraugus County-specific legislation (3 bills). No committee chairmanship is indicated in available data, and no lobbying sector information was provided in this brief.AI
Vulnerability Index AD-148
Base lean: R+35
Favorable D
Neutral
Favorable R
Scenario model: ±5pt national environment shift applied to district base lean (R+35). 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-148
General Elections
| Year | Winner | Runner-up | Margin |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Joseph Sempolinski 65.9% (38,536) | Daniel J. Brown 27.2% (15,893) | 38.7pts |
| 2022 | Joseph M. Giglio 100.0% (36,065) | Uncontested | — |
| 2020 | Joseph M. Giglio 74.1% (39,964) | W. Ross Scott 25.9% (14,004) | 48.2pts |
| 2018 | Joseph M. Giglio 100.0% (33,574) | Uncontested | — |
| 2016 | Joseph M. Giglio 100.0% (40,721) | Uncontested | — |
| 2014 | Joseph M. Giglio 100.0% (27,134) | Uncontested | — |
| 2012 | Joseph M. Giglio 64.9% (28,873) | Daniel J. Brown 35.1% (15,636) | 29.8pts |
| 2011 | Raymond W. Walter 49.1% (17,254) | Craig R. Bucki 45.8% (16,102) | ⚡ 3.3pts |
| 2010 | James P. Hayes 67.8% (29,264) | Gregory M. Vinal 32.2% (13,886) | 35.6pts |
| 2008 | James P. Hayes 60.3% (33,787) | Jerome D. Schad 36.9% (20,680) | 23.4pts |
| 2006 | James P. Hayes 62.8% (28,351) | Susan J. Grelick 33.9% (15,287) | 28.9pts |
| 2004 | James P. Hayes 100.0% (37,791) | Uncontested | — |
| 2002 | James P. Hayes 58.2% (23,847) | Daniel J. Ward 41.8% (17,135) | 16.4pts |
| 2000 | Sandra Lee Wirth 61.3% (35,660) | Richard A. Fontana 38.7% (22,512) | 22.6pts |
| 1998 | Sandra Lee Wirth 66.6% (29,616) | Robert M. Kucewicz 33.4% (14,871) | 33.2pts |
| 1996 | Sandra Lee Wirth 61.0% (32,918) | Richard T. Quinn 39.0% (21,027) | 22.0pts |
Primary Elections
| Year | Winner | Runner-up | Margin |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2008 (Independence) | James P. Hayes 64.3% (160) | Janet M. Vullo 35.7% (89) | 28.6pts |
| 2002 (Working Families) | James P. Hayes 100.0% (12) | Opportunity To Ballot 0.0% (0) | — |
Source: NYS Board of Elections certified results. ⚡ = margin under 10 pts. District history reflects 2022 redistricted boundaries.
Voter Registration
District 148 Profile
Population
130,604
Median income
$61,087
Median rent
$770
Homeownership
76.9%
Education (BA+)
22.3%
Poverty rate
17.6%
Uninsured rate
5.9%
Unemployment rate
5.8%
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates (2024).
Demographics
White
90.7%
Black
1.5%
Hispanic
2.2%
Asian
1.2%
Median age
41.3
Foreign born
1.8%
Limited English households
0.4%
Veterans
8.1%
Disability rate
16.7%
Commute Mode
Drive alone
75.3%
Public transit
0.4%
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
59
Floor debate appearances
25
Years in office
1
Bill sponsorship from NYS Open Legislation API. Joint hearing appearances from NYS Senate hearing transcripts.
Floor Session Activity 2025–2026
A10102
PASSED
2026-03-30
An act to amend the Real Property Law, in relation to enacting the 'Low Impact Landscaping Rights Act'
The Assembly passed A10102, the 'Low Impact Landscaping Rights Act' sponsored by Assemblywoman Glick, limiting homeowners associations from prohibiting or unreasonably restricting low-impact landscaping installations on residential properties. The bill allows HOAs to deny permission only in common areas or where landscaping would encroach on neighboring properties, and requires HOAs to detail justifications for denials. Glick argued the bill protects homeowners' property rights in response to changing environmental conditions, particularly in flood-prone areas where sustainable landscaping can absorb water and prevent property damage. She cited Long Island water commissioners' statements supporting sustainable gardens for aquifer protection. The bill mirrors existing protections for solar systems and electric vehicle charging stations. Assemblyman Gandolfo opposed the measure as an encroachment on voluntary contracts, noting Governor Hochul vetoed similar legislation last year. He argued residents should lobby their HOA boards rather than have the state override private agreements. The bill passed despite Republican Conference opposition, with several members explaining their votes on constitutional and contractual grounds.
A04849
PASSED
2026-03-18
Microplastics in washing machines - filter requirement
The Assembly passed legislation requiring washing machines sold in New York to include filters preventing microplastics from entering wastewater. Sponsor Assemblywoman Kelles argued microplastics are a widespread environmental and health threat found in water, soil, air, and human bodies, and that the technology has existed for two decades. She noted support from farmers, hunters, and bipartisan backing. Opponents, including Assemblywoman Giglio, cited California Governor Newsom's 2023 veto of similar legislation due to affordability concerns and questioned why New York should be the first state to impose such requirements. Assemblyman Sempolinski opposed the bill as an example of New York imposing costly regulations that drive businesses elsewhere. The bill passed with a party vote requested, indicating mixed support across the chamber.
A08022-A
PASSED
2026-02-09
An act to amend the Criminal Procedure Law, in relation to requiring certain covered platforms to provide a process for law enforcement agencies to contact such platform and to comply with search warrants within 72 hours
A09433 / S6351-B
PASSED
2026-01-29
An act to amend the General Municipal Law in relation to electronic bell jar games
The Assembly passed A09433, sponsored by Asm. Woerner, amending the General Municipal Law regarding electronic bell jar games. The bill drew concern from Asm. Sempolinski, who noted the lack of explicit prohibition on gaming machines within the Seneca Nation's gaming exclusivity zone and warned that leaving violation determinations to the Gaming Commission could lead to costly litigation and undermine ongoing Compact negotiations. Despite these reservations, Sempolinski voted yes, urging that the statute be enforced to protect tribal compacts. The bill passed with support for its legitimate gaming policy goals.
A09466 / S50
PASSED
2026-01-21
An act to amend the Workers' Compensation Law, in relation to extending Paid Family Leave benefits to certain construction workers
The Assembly passed A09466, a chapter amendment extending Paid Family Leave benefits to certain construction workers. Assemblyman Sempolinski, who had voted against the original bill, explained his affirmative vote on the chapter amendment, noting that revisions addressed concerns he had raised in prior debate with the bill's sponsor. Sempolinski stated he was pleased the changes were made and indicated he would support the revised version.
A09445
PASSED
2026-01-20
Prohibiting the use of infant walkers in child care facilities
The Assembly passed A09445, sponsored by Assemblywoman Paulin, prohibiting the use of infant walkers in child care facilities. Assemblymember Sempolinski voted against the measure, arguing that while child safety is paramount, the bill should include a carve-out for special needs children who may benefit from infant walkers for physical therapy. Sempolinski cited his daughter with Down Syndrome, whose use of an infant walker helped her develop the strength and confidence to walk, and expressed concern that the blanket prohibition denies this therapeutic tool to children with legitimate medical needs.
A03351
PASSED
2025-06-17
Party voter registration challenge procedures for parties without county committees
The Assembly passed a bill extending to minor parties without county committees the ability to challenge voter registrations for party affiliation—a power currently available only to major parties. The measure sparked heated debate, with supporters arguing it levels the playing field and prevents party lines from being 'hijacked,' while opponents contended it is unconstitutional, removes local party control, and was specifically designed to address the 2024 NY-17 congressional race involving the Working Families Party. Multiple members cited the case of Anthony Frascone, who secured a Working Families Party ballot line without running a campaign. Sponsor Asm. Levenberg argued the bill ensures all parties with enrolled voters can challenge those not in sympathy with party principles. Critics, including Asm. Tague and Asm. Ra, called the bill a partisan power grab that allows unelected state bodies to determine voters' political beliefs. The bill passed on a slow roll call vote late on the final day of the legislative session.
A07862 / S07111
2025-06-17
An act to amend the Election Law in relation to permit political parties to perform certain functions without forming county committees
The Assembly debated legislation allowing political parties without county committees to remove voters from party enrollment through a state-level process. Sponsor Asm. Levenberg said the bill levels the playing field for minor parties that cannot afford to form county committees, extending a process already used by parties with county committees. Asm. Sempolinski opposed the measure, arguing it enables state-level loyalty tests that could remove voters for disagreeing with party positions and centralizes power away from local county leadership. He contended voters should have the right to enroll in any party regardless of agreement with all positions, and that diversity of thought is essential to democracy. The debate was ongoing as of the transcript segment's end.
A06757 / S06757
PASSED
2025-06-16
Peer-to-peer vehicle rental insurance requirements
The Assembly passed legislation reducing minimum insurance requirements for peer-to-peer vehicle rental companies, lowering the threshold from $1.25 million to $75,000-$150,000. Sponsor Assemblymember Weprin argued the higher requirement was preventing market competition and that competitor Getaround left New York specifically citing the mandate. However, opponents including Assemblymembers Ra, Durso, Chang, and Jensen raised public safety concerns, noting that the online-only transaction model lacks the verification procedures of traditional rental companies and that unvetted drivers operating unverified vehicles warrant higher insurance coverage. The bill passed with support from the Majority Conference, though Republicans generally opposed it. Several members explained their votes, with Assemblymember Steck voting yes after determining that existing statute requires the company to defend vehicle owners against lawsuits, and Assemblymember Jensen voting no, arguing the change was premature given that Turo remains profitable.
A07388 / S07388
PASSED
2025-06-16
An act to amend the Labor Law, in relation to enacting the 'remedial construction of New York Labor Law Act'
The Assembly passed A07388, codifying 70 years of judicial precedent requiring courts to interpret New York Labor Law liberally to accomplish its remedial purposes. Sponsor Bronson argued the codification is necessary because some recent federal courts have diverged from this interpretation, threatening worker protections against misclassification, wage theft, and other abuses. He noted the Legislature previously codified similar provisions for antidiscrimination law in 2019. Assemblymember Durso sought clarification that the bill would not circumvent federal law, and Bronson confirmed it applies only to New York State Labor Law interpretation. Assemblymember Sempolinski opposed on constitutional grounds, arguing the Legislature should write clear laws rather than direct judicial interpretation. Bronson initially abstained to explain his vote, then voted affirmatively, clarifying that 'liberal' means construing law to fulfill its protective intent and spirit. The bill takes effect immediately.
A07340 / S07340
2025-06-13
An act to amend Chapter 469 of the Laws of 2024, amending the Tax Law relating to authorizing the City of Olean to impose a hotel and motel tax, in relation to the effectiveness thereof
A05234
2025-06-11
Eliminating Automatic Cross-Endorsement for Judicial Candidates
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.
A06741-A
PASSED
2025-06-09
An act to amend the Election Law, in relation to requiring State and county boards of elections to post sample ballots
The Assembly passed A06741-A, sponsored by Asm. Simone, requiring state and county boards of elections to post complete sample ballots online and mail them 12 days before early voting begins. The bill updates election law to account for early voting, which was not contemplated in existing statute. Currently, counties have discretion whether to mail or post sample ballots. The measure would create a statewide database accessible through the State Board of Elections website and require an embedded security tool to prevent tampering. Sponsor Simone argued the bill gives voters more time to research candidates and prepare informed votes. Asm. Sempolinski raised concerns about the 90-day effective date, which could require implementation for the 2025 general election, and questioned the undefined security tool requirement and potential unfunded mandate on counties. The Republican Conference voted against the bill; the Majority Conference voted in favor.
A06741-A
PASSED
2025-06-09
An act to amend the Election Law, in relation to requiring State and county boards of elections to post sample ballots
The Assembly passed A06741-A, sponsored by Asm. Simone, requiring state and county boards of elections to post complete sample ballots online and mail them 12 days before early voting begins. The bill updates election law to account for early voting, which the current statute does not contemplate. Under current law, counties have discretion whether to mail or post sample ballots. The new bill mandates posting of full ballots for every election district in every county on a statewide database or the State Board of Elections website, with an embedded security tool to prevent tampering. The bill takes effect 90 days after enactment, potentially allowing implementation for the 2025 general election. Asm. Sempolinski questioned whether counties could comply with the timeline and raised concerns about undefined security requirements and potential unfunded mandates, though he acknowledged the bill's positive goal. The Republican Conference voted against the bill, while the Democratic majority supported it.
A03649-B / S01356-A
PASSED
2025-06-06
An act to amend the Election Law and the Vehicle and Traffic Law, in relation to joining multistate voter list maintenance organizations
The Assembly passed legislation authorizing New York to join the Electronic Registration Information Center (ERIC), a bipartisan multistate voter list maintenance organization used by 24 states and the District of Columbia. Sponsored by Asm. Taylor, the bill aims to improve voter roll accuracy by cross-referencing state voter registration data with publicly available information from the U.S. Post Office and Social Security Administration to identify deceased voters and those who have moved. The state will pay $150,000 in startup costs and $25,000 in annual dues. During debate, Asm. Sempolinski secured clarifications that ERIC does not remove voters but provides information for state verification, that confidential voter information (for domestic violence victims and others) is protected and not shared with ERIC, and that all information shared is already publicly available. The bill includes protections requiring mailings to unregistered voters to clearly state citizenship requirements and prohibiting the Commissioner from knowingly providing information on non-citizens. Asm. Jacobson noted the bill will help restore public confidence in elections by addressing concerns about voter roll accuracy.
A07385-A
PASSED
2025-06-04
An act to amend Chapter 416 of the Laws of 2007, establishing the City of Rochester and the Board of Education of the City School District of the City of Rochester School Facilities Modernization Program Act, in relation to granting further authority to the RJSCB to modernize educational facilities in the City of Rochester.
A07385-A
PASSED
2025-06-04
An act to amend Chapter 416 of the Laws of 2007, establishing the City of Rochester and the Board of Education of the City School District of the City of Rochester School Facilities Modernization Program Act, in relation to granting further authority to the RJSCB to modernize educational facilities in the City of Rochester.
The Assembly passed A07385-A, which amends the Rochester School Facilities Modernization Program Act to grant further authority to the Rochester Joint Schools Construction Board to modernize educational facilities. The bill increases the project's authorized expenditure by $125 million. Assemblyman Sempolinski voted against the measure, expressing concern that the sponsor's memo states the total cost to the State and local government is 'to be determined,' leaving unclear who would ultimately bear the financial responsibility. The bill takes effect immediately.
A07385-A
PASSED
2025-06-04
An act to amend Chapter 416 of the Laws of 2007, establishing the City of Rochester and the Board of Education of the City School District of the City of Rochester School Facilities Modernization Program Act, in relation to granting further authority to the RJSCB to modernize educational facilities in the City of Rochester.
A01890
PASSED
2025-05-28
Low Impact Landscaping Rights Act
The Assembly passed A01890, the Low Impact Landscaping Rights Act, allowing homeowners association residents to install pollinator gardens, rain gardens, and other low-impact landscaping on their private property. Sponsor Assemblymember Glick argued that 85 percent of land east of the Mississippi is privately owned and residents must be able to support pollinators and native species. The bill includes safeguards requiring landscaping to be reasonably maintained and not intrude on common areas or neighboring properties; HOAs retain authority to deny landscaping creating public safety hazards or nuisances. Opponents, including Assemblymembers Gandolfo, Walsh, Angelino, and Yeger, argued the bill improperly overrides existing contractual agreements between property owners and HOAs that residents voluntarily entered into, and one member contended it is unconstitutional. Supporters emphasized water conservation and pesticide reduction benefits.
A00387-B
PASSED
2025-05-14
An act to amend the Public Health Law, in relation to requiring general hospitals to provide language assistance services
The Assembly passed legislation requiring general hospitals to establish comprehensive language assistance programs, including designation of a language assistance coordinator and staff training on culturally competent care. Sponsor Assemblywoman Rozic clarified that the bill codifies existing Department of Health regulations and allows hospitals flexibility in implementation, including use of digital translation services. The Majority Conference voted in favor while the Minority Conference generally opposed, though some members crossed party lines. Assemblywoman Rozic cited Census data showing nearly six million New Yorkers speak a language other than English, with almost half reporting limited English proficiency. Opponents, including Assemblyman Sempolinski, raised concerns about unfunded mandates on rural hospitals in areas with minimal language diversity. The bill passed with support from members representing diverse urban communities.
A03009-C
PASSED
2025-05-08
Budget Bill - comprehensive tax and revenue legislation including inflation refund credit, middle-class tax cut, child tax credit enhancement, real estate investor restrictions, MTA funding changes, and various tax credit extensions
The New York State Assembly passed the comprehensive $2025-26 budget bill (A03009-C) on May 8, implementing major revenue and spending provisions including an $2 billion one-time inflation refund credit for 8.2 million New Yorkers, a phased middle-class income tax cut beginning in 2026, and a five-year extension of the millionaire tax expected to generate $4.8 billion annually. The budget also includes a three-year enhancement to the Empire State Child Tax Credit benefiting 1.6 million filers and 2.8 million children; a bell-to-bell smartphone ban in schools; universal school meals; housing access vouchers; and restrictions on institutional real estate investors requiring a 90-day waiting period before purchase. The bill reduces state revenues by $2.7 billion in fiscal year 2025-26, with out-year reductions of $1.7 billion and $1.1 billion in subsequent years. Minority Leader Ra criticized the overall spending increase of $13 billion and questioned whether the modest tax cuts and one-time rebates adequately address New York's high-tax status and business competitiveness. Assemblymember Sempolinski opposed $111 million in film tax credits, arguing the funds should prioritize wages for care workers serving vulnerable populations. Despite concerns raised during debate, the bill passed with support from the Democratic majority.
A03003-D
PASSED
2025-05-08
Revenue Budget Bill
The New York State Assembly passed the $254 billion revenue budget bill on May 8, with debate centered on competing fiscal priorities. Sponsored by Assemblymember Pretlow, the bill extends and expands film tax credits by $100 million, restructures the MTA payroll tax to reduce burdens on small businesses while increasing rates on large employers, and includes provisions restricting private equity purchases of residential properties. Supporters highlighted benefits to the film industry, affordable housing preservation, and disability employment incentives. Critics, including Assemblymember Sempolinski, argued the $111 million film credit expansion diverts resources from direct care workers serving vulnerable populations. The bill includes $2 billion in rebate checks to residents, expanded semiconductor R&D incentives, and an organ donation tax credit. A party vote was requested, with the Minority Conference voting generally in the negative while allowing individual members to vote affirmatively. The bill passed with multiple members explaining their votes in support.
A03009-C
PASSED
2025-05-08
Budget Bill - comprehensive tax and revenue legislation including inflation refund credit, middle-class tax cut, child tax credit enhancement, real estate investor restrictions, MTA payroll tax changes, film and theatrical tax credits, and various other tax provisions
The New York State Assembly passed the $2.7 billion revenue reduction budget bill (A03009-C) on May 8, implementing major tax and spending provisions including an $2 billion one-time inflation refund credit for 8.2 million New Yorkers, a phased middle-class income tax cut beginning in 2026, and a three-year enhancement to the Empire State Child Tax Credit benefiting 1.6 million filers and 2.8 million children. The budget extends the temporary millionaire tax for five additional years, projected to generate $4.8 billion annually. The bill also includes restrictions on institutional real estate investors requiring a 90-day market waiting period and prohibiting depreciation deductions, increases to the MTA payroll tax generating $1.4 billion annually with differentiated rates for New York City and suburban zones, and extensions of film and theatrical production tax credits. Debate highlighted concerns from Minority Leader Ra about fiscal sustainability, with the budget increasing overall spending by $13 billion while creating out-year deficits approaching $29 billion. Assemblymember Sempolinski opposed the bill, criticizing $111 million in film tax credits as misaligned priorities. Members speaking in favor praised provisions including universal school meals, smartphone bans in schools, housing vouchers, and increased funding for vulnerable populations.
A03003-D
PASSED
2025-05-08
Revenue Budget Bill
The New York State Assembly passed a comprehensive revenue budget bill on May 8 that includes $100 million in new film tax credits, MTA payroll tax restructuring, and $2 billion in rebate checks to residents. The bill, sponsored by Assemblymember Pretlow, drew criticism from some members over spending priorities. Assemblymember Sempolinski opposed the measure, arguing the film tax credit expansion diverts resources from direct care workers for vulnerable populations. Assemblymember Maher questioned the $2 billion rebate check allocation when direct support professionals lack adequate wages. The bill also includes restrictions on private equity home purchases, expansion of the Historic Preservation Tax Credit for affordable housing conversion, and increases to problem gaming funding. The Minority Conference voted generally in the negative, though members were free to vote affirmatively. The bill passed with support from the Majority Conference.
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.