Assembly Passes Deficit Reduction Plan to Balance Current Budget

February 4, 2009

Assemblymember Kevin Cahill (D- Ulster, Dutchess) announced today that the New York State Assembly passed a deficit reduction plan that includes $1.6 billion in cuts and other budget actions. This measure will allow the state to end the current fiscal year with a balanced budget at the end of March.

“The Legislature was forced to make some difficult decisions yesterday,” said Assemblymember Cahill. “I did my best to keep the needs of my constituents and the community in mind to ensure that these cuts were equitable and that local organizations or institutions were not disproportionately impacted by these actions.”

Lawmakers closely inspected programs and initiatives included in the budget and spent many hours in lengthy debate to reach a conclusion. As a result of yesterday’s action, the projected deficit for the 2009-2010 has now been reduced from nearly $16 billion to $13 billion. Included in this plan were reductions to legislative programs, health care and the Environmental Protection Fund as well as an increase in tuition at SUNY.

Mr. Cahill was successful in maintaining the $5 million economic development funds he had secured in this year’s budget that is specifically dedicated to attracting the solar industry to the Hudson Valley. “In order to get our economy moving again, we must continue our commitment to invest in green jobs,” said Mr. Cahill. “Solar power is going to play a critical role in our energy future and economic development in our region. I look forward to partnering with Governor Paterson and entities like The Solar Energy Consortium to make sure this funding is dedicated quickly and effectively.”

“Yesterday’s action was far from ideal and I am particularly troubled by the decision to increase college tuition in the absence of a clear and meaningful benefit for students attending our public universities,” said Mr. Cahill. “SUNY represents the backbone of our economy in New York and it is vital that we guarantee that our students and institutions have the resources they need to succeed and thrive.”

The Legislature faces further challenges as it continues to work on the 2009-10 state budget. Plans to close the deficit include further budget cuts, new revenue streams and the inclusion of funds from the federal stimulus package.

“As the budget negotiations move forward, I will continue my efforts to make sure that we are fulfilling our obligations to the people of this state by providing for their heath care, safety, education and economic security,” said Assemblymember Cahill. “We cannot balance this budget on the backs of working families; everybody is going to have to contribute their fair share.”

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