Assemblyman Bill Reilich (R,C,I,-Greece) today called for budget transparency in a joint conference with the minority members of the Senate and Assembly.
“Partisan politics that is conducted behind closed doors accomplishes nothing and eliminates the voices of New Yorkers. The budget is an issue that affects all of us regardless of geographical location and political affiliation; it is time for a state government that is transparent and represents all of New York. I urge the Governor to present an on-time budget to the people of New York – a budget that is not laden with big spending and higher taxes, but rather one that works for the people. Budget reforms call for the process to be open, transparent and allow input from citizens; it is time that the Governor is accountable.
“Raising taxes and fees is the worst thing that can be done as we face these difficult economic times. Families and businesses have already been forced to cut back and government needs to learn to do the same. I have called for the reduction of taxation on families and small businesses over and over again; the constituents of New York State are calling on government to reform, and it is about time that Governor Paterson started listening to all of our voices across the state, not just a select group.”