Statement from State Senator Gustavo Rivera on the Dissolution of Negotiations to Reach Final Budget Agreement

"The dissolution of negotiations to reach a final budget agreement yesterday is deeply disappointing. New Yorkers elected us not only to represent them honorably and responsibly but, more importantly, to find common sense legislative solutions to the significant challenges they face daily. 

At a time when Washington is adopting a destructive course, we cannot allow for shortsighted political games to jeopardize the lives of the more than 19 million New Yorkers we serve. I urge Governor Cuomo to work with Democratic Leader Stewart-Cousins and Assembly Speaker Heastie to pass a budget that truly reflects democratic values on issues such as Raise The Age and 421-a.

We need to pass a budget that will resolve the issues faced by New Yorkers, not implement half measures that will continue to pose challenges for our residents."