The Assembly’s one-house budget wish list proves that the Majority is starting to listen to the concerns raised by New Yorkers upstate, and specifically the priorities I have voiced for Western New York. However, this one-house proposal ultimately breaks the bank in spending, paid for by increased state debt as well as more than $7 billion in new taxes. No one can afford that.

Though this fiscal irresponsibility forces me to vote against this measure, I was pleased to see that the Assembly Majority has included many of the priorities of our region. In particular, returning the state’s School Tax Relief (STAR) program to an exemption would help property owners across our state avoid confusion and ensure they get the immediate tax relief they deserve if included in the final state budget. The proposal also includes good news in that it provides for a wage increase for direct care workers and increases funding for libraries and local highways, roads and bridges, and protects the Western New York Children’s Psychiatric Center. The wish list also demonstrates a continued investment in the Buffalo Bills and Western New York regional economic development, with added new proposals for greater accountability and transparency similar to legislation I sponsor.

As we continue working toward an on-time and fiscally responsible budget, I will continue working to give voice to the concerns of Western New York. As evidenced by this resolution, the Majority is listening and I hope to see these proposals in the final state budget.