Seward Comments On Governor's Budget

Senator James L. Seward today commented on the governor’s proposed 2005-2006 state budget, which was unveiled at the state capital today.

"The governor has provided the legislature with a good starting point for the next year. In particular, I certainly support his emphasis on reforming Medicaid and its mandates and providing genuine property tax relief to our county taxpayers. The additional fees and taxes he proposes for providers, nursing homes and hospitals is troubling.

"Education funding for our local schools is key, particularly in light of the CFE decision. It’s unclear how he intends to address CFE, but his proposal to increase aid to our public schools is a good first step.

"Over the next few weeks we will focus on the budget’s details as we finalize a budget and, if the Assembly will work with us, have it in place by April 1."

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