“While leaders are touting affordability and highlighting policies that claim to put up to $5,000 back into the pockets of New Yorkers, the reality is this: A $254 billion budget is far from affordable. We cannot continue to promote relief on one hand while ballooning state spending on the other. The projected out-year budget gaps are unacceptable and should concern every taxpayer in this state.

One of the biggest disappointments in this budget is its failure to meaningfully address Tier 6 pension reform, which is a top issue for recruitment and retention across the public sector—especially among teachers and public safety professionals. Similarly, we fell short on implementing real solutions to recruit and retain staff in our correctional facilities, leaving frontline personnel without the support they need.

Though the budget fell short on several key items, it is not without its bright spots. I was pleased to see a $50 million increase in CHIPS funding to improve our local roads and infrastructure, along with the extension of the waiver allowing schools to rehire retired teachers, which will help address educator shortages. The budget also includes expanded aidable salary support for BOCES programs, which are essential to career and technical education, and increased funding for our libraries, which serve as vital community resources. Additionally, the tax credit for organ donation and funding for Donate Life will strengthen life-saving organ donation efforts, and the change allowing law enforcement candidates to sit for civil service exams up to age 43 is a smart move that expands opportunity and helps address workforce needs.”