“Year after year, the state budget continues to grow, raising serious questions about long-term affordability. Over the past five years, state spending has increased by $81 billion—a 46 percent jump—a level of growth that is simply unsustainable. In addition, the state is facing a projected budget deficit of $27 billion over the next three years, the result of years of unchecked spending and mismanagement.

While the governor’s proposal includes significant investments, it remains unclear how the state can adequately maintain this level of spending—or how it can meaningfully lower costs for families. In child care, the budget proposes an additional $1.7 billion investment, including $1.23 billion for the Child Care Assistance Program, yet counties across the state continue to cap or close enrollment, and parents still face unaffordable care costs. Providers remain stretched thin, and access continues to vary by county, underscoring the need for structural reforms that improve affordability and availability—not just increased spending.

New Yorkers deserve a budget that prioritizes accountability, real cost relief, and long-term sustainability—not more spending without results.”