Kenneth P. LaValle has over thirty-five years experience in shaping government policy. As the highly regarded Director of the Senate Education Committee, his pedagogical and administrative background enhanced his effectiveness and earned him the respect of public officials and education organizations throughout New York State. His reputation as a highly skilled negotiator propelled him to seek public office and, in 1976, he ran his first successful campaign to represent the First Senatorial District. One of the New York State Senate’s most senior members, Senator LaValle holds an influential leadership position as Chairman of the Majority Conference. He has distinguished himself as Chairman of the Senate Higher Education Committee and is a respected member of the Finance, Codes, and Rules Committees. Senator LaValle’s other assignments include the Standing Committees on Agriculture, Children and Families, Insurance, Judiciary, and Tourism. The Governor appointed him to the New York State Commission on National and Community Service.

Best known for his landmark environmental accomplishments Senator LaValle remains in the forefront on issues vital to the future of Long Island. He has authored and enacted bills providing for farmland preservation, cluster zoning, groundwater protection, transfer of development rights, and secured funding for major public acquisitions of key environmentally sensitive properties important to Long Island’s heritage.

Senator LaValle’s crowning achievement remains the enactment of The Pine Barrens Preservation Act often described as the single most important land preservation legislation in Long Island’s history. Senator LaValle’s ability to work with differing parties to build consensus was crucial in the passage of this historic initiative safeguarding an environmental legacy for future generations. His impressive environmental record has earned him accolades and awards from local, state, and national associations.

Quality health care is a priority for Senator LaValle. He has enhanced the delivery system, expanded access for patients, and provided prescription drug coverage for senior citizens. He ensured health care decisions would be made by the patient and doctor rather than financially motivated insurance carriers. He has championed the rights of volunteer firefighters providing benefit packages and structuring a financial incentive program to encourage recruitment and assist active volunteers.

Senator LaValle’s expertise on a wealth of issues important to the Long Island community has made him a valued and trusted resource. Always mindful of the negative economic impact of rising property taxes, Senator LaValle’s groundwork provided the foundation for the sorely needed school tax relief program more popularly referred to as STAR. He continues as a major player in the annual negotiations for school aid.

Senator LaValle has a B.S. degree from Adelphi College, a M.S. degree in Education from the State University College at New Paltz, and a Juris Doctorate from Touro College Jacob D. Fuchsberg Law Center. He has completed extensive graduate study in Government and International Relations at New York University and received an Honorary Doctor of Civil Law from Dowling College.