New York State Sen. Joseph Griffo, R-Rome, expressed concerns following the release of new estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau that show New York has seen the largest population decline in the nation.

An estimated 126,000 residents left the state between July 2019 and July 2020, according to the preliminary data.

“I recognize that New York needs to see a dramatic change in policy in order to keep people, families and businesses here, and have continued to advocate for such changes during my time in the Senate,” Sen. Griffo said. “People are leaving because they are overtaxed, overregulated and energy costs are too high. It is too difficult for people to afford to live in this state and for businesses to be successful. Until we have a significant overhaul of taxes and regulations and mandates and focus on lowering our energy costs, we will continue to face a significant challenge here.”

The estimated drop in population also could result in New York losing up to two congressional seats, which Sen. Griffo previously warned could happen if the census count was completed during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Additionally, Sen. Griffo has communicated publicly and with elected officials at all levels of government about the importance of an accurate Census count and how an inaccurate survey could negatively affect federal aid, grants, funding for housing and health assistance and local, state and federal redistricting.