Inside Government is a Q&A series that gives New Yorkers a glimpse inside the role of the elected officials who represent them. This edition of Inside Government with PoliticsNY features New York State Assembly Member Michael Novakhov. Assembly Member Novakhov represents the 45 Assembly District in Brooklyn which includes portions of Sheepshead Bay, Midwood, Manhattan Beach, Gravesend, and Brighton Beach.
Q: What piece of legislation are you most proud to have passed this legislative session?
A: I’m proud to have introduced Assembly Bill A05179, which requires all vehicles that are capable of traveling over 25 miles per hour to be registered and licensed with the Department of Motor Vehicles. This bill addresses the rise in unregistered mopeds causing accidents and safety issues across the city. By closing this loophole, we’re making our streets safer and ensuring all motorized vehicles are held to the same standards of accountability and regulation.
Q: How does your office work to support your constituents in their day-to-day lives?
A: My office has a great team that assists constituents with any and all issues they bring in – from housing and benefits to public safety and more. We maintain an open-door policy, welcoming both appointments and walk-ins. Whether it’s navigating city agencies or resolving neighborhood concerns, we’re here to help every step of the way.
Q: What is the most prevalent issue facing your constituents and how are you working to resolve it?
A: SNAP benefit theft is a serious issue in our district. Our office helps victims deal with the problem of stolen benefits and pushes for systemic change. I sponsored Bill A08197 to require warning signs at food retailers and mandate chip-enabled payment systems to prevent EBT skimming. I also co-sponsored Bill A01318 to create a state SNAP minimum benefit, ensuring low-income families receive stable support even when federal aid falls short.
Q: What do you hope to accomplish by the end of 2025?
A: By the end of 2025, I want to see real results in the fight against antisemitism in New York City. That means pushing back hard against the rise of antisemitism and making sure the Jewish community in District 45 feels safer and more supported. This isn’t just a goal – it’s something I’m actively working on every single day, and I won’t stop until we get it done.
Q: What is the proudest moment of your political career?
A: My proudest moment was winning by 20 points against a 22-year incumbent, despite not being a politician – I was just a local radio host who wanted to help my community. That victory showed the power of grassroots support and how deeply people believed in the need for change.
