Assemblymember Cahill Opposes Governor’s Plan to Delay State Income Tax Refunds

February 17, 2010

Albany – Assemblymember Kevin Cahill (D-Ulster, Dutchess) announced his opposition to Governor Paterson’s proposal that could potentially delay $500 million in 2009 state income tax refunds.

“In these trying times our economy needs a boost in consumer spending,” said Assemblymember Cahill. “We should be encouraging people to file early so they can get their hard earned refunds. The Governor’s proposal would directly harm taxpayers and businesses at a time when we can least afford it.”

The Executive is considering lowering the cap on income tax refunds paid in the first quarter of 2010 from $1.75 billion to $1.25 billion. New Yorkers who have already filed their 2009 tax returns could see a delay in the arrival of their tax refund checks if the cap is reached before April 1, 2010. The state has until June to pay the refunds before they start accruing interest. So far 281,000 tax refunds have been issued totaling $293 million.

“When many families are stretched to the limit paying for housing, food and health care, this is the last thing they need,” said Assemblymember Cahill. “New Yorkers want leadership, not political games played with their hard earned tax refunds. I urge the Governor come to the table so we can deal with this issue in the context of putting together a sound, responsible budget.”

What's New