Gov. George Pataki unveiled his 2006 state budget Tuesday morning, and I’m pleased with its potential. This is the opportunity New Yorkers have been looking for, putting the great plan he outlined in his “State of the State” address into action.
I am particularly pleased with the governor’s tax cut package for businesses, homeowners and families. Tax cuts are essential in our efforts to revive the upstate economy.
The governor’s budget, like his “State of the State” speech, reflects a return to the issues that he implemented so successfully throughout the late 1990’s – a pro-business tax cut, keeping expenses in line and an agenda that upstate New York desperately needs.
Help is also on the way for New Yorkers feeling the burn of high heating prices. Burdensome heating costs are a drain on family incomes; therefore, the governor has set aside money to help reduce the state’s dependence on imported energy.
The governor also is making available funds that would pay education dividends for many years to come. If the budget is passed as is, there will be free SUNY tuition for college students who commit to teaching in the fields of math or science within New York.
Perhaps most importantly, the governor has presented us with yet another sound balanced budget. Homeowners, seniors, parents and students can all find solace in this year’s budget because there’s something for everyone. It is my hope that the legislature will now act responsibly and pass another on-time budget.