Lawler Introduces Bill To Change Bridge's Name To Tappan Zee

PEARL RIVER, NY — New York State Assemblyman Mike Lawler has introduced legislation in Albany to change the name of the new bridge over the Hudson River to the Tappan Zee Bridge.

It's essential, he said, because the Gov. Mario M. Cuomo Bridge "bears the same last name" as Gov. Andrew Cuomo, who is mired in controversies over inappropriate behavior with women and the state's rules about nursing homes at the start of the pandemic.

"We cannot wait another legislative session to change the name back — it must be done now," Lawler said.

The new bridge was named after the current governor's father, Mario Cuomo, who was governor of New York from 1983 to 1994. Its name was immediately disliked by many. SEE: Petition Asking For Bridge Name Change Delivered To Albany. The old bridge, named the Governor Malcolm Wilson Tappan Zee Bridge, was completely dismantled by 2019.

Lawler (R,C,I,SAM-Pearl River) has come out swinging since his defeat in November of longtime Assemblywoman Ellen Jaffee for the 97th Assembly District seat. Among other actions:

• Jan. 26. He announced his objection to a bill to decriminalize prostitution in New York, calling it "Spitzer's Law."
• Feb. 3. His first call for an investigation into COVID-19 deaths in New York nursing homes and for revoking the governor's pandemic executive powers.
• Feb. 4. He visited Putnam County to support Republican Kevin McConville's campaign for Putnam County Sheriff.
• Feb. 24. His first call for the governor to resign.
• March 8. He joined his colleagues in the Assembly Minority Conference calling for state lawmakers to impeach Cuomo if he refuses to resign.