Community Update: Diversity in Education, World Read Aloud Day, Repealing the SALT Deductibility Cap, and more
February 4, 2021
Dear Friends:
I hope you and your family stayed safe & warm through the major snowstorm this week.
A report from NYS Comptroller Tom DiNapoli released this week detailed a 10% drop, or $1.8 billion, in sales tax revenue statewide in the year 2020 compared to the previous year. This lost revenue is devastating to local governments in particular, and we need federal government assistance for state & local governments to fill the budget gaps created by the fiscal impact of the pandemic.
If you would like to testify about the proposed 2021-2022 Executive Budget, the Westchester Senate Delegation is hosting two opportunities to make your voice heard. Click here to register to testify on Thursday, February 11th or Tuesday, February 16th. Additional information about the Budget Forums is included below.
This week, the Senate Majority Conference adopted a series of bills to address long standing structural inequities that perpetuate racial disparities in our state. One package of bills ensures underrepresented candidates have the resources they need to enter the teaching profession and the support & networking opportunities to succeed afterwards. We know that education is most effective when it acknowledges and reflects the diversity of our students & communities. Read more about this package of legislation in the section below.
On Tuesday, February 2nd, Governor Andrew Cuomo announced that he is granting counties the flexibility to add restaurant workers, taxi drivers, and developmentally disabled facilities to the Phase 1B vaccine prioritization group. To check if you are eligible for the vaccine and find an appointment at a state-run facility, visit the Am I Eligible website here or call 1-833-NYS-4-VAX (1-833-697-4829). Those who are 65 years or older can also call local pharmacies to check on appointment availability. To look through the list of who is currently eligible to receive the vaccine under Phase 1A and Phase 1B, click here.
As always, if there is anything my office can assist you with, please don't hesitate to email me at smayer@nysenate.gov or call (914) 934-5250.
Warm regards,
Shelley B. Mayer
State Senator
37th District