Senator Young Responds to Governor Cuomo's Executive Budget Address

“The commitment to no new taxes and the focus on economic growth are welcome features of the Governor’s budget proposal. Our hardworking, overburdened taxpayers cannot afford tax hikes, and we must continue to reduce the cost of doing business in the state so that our economy is competitive. We should continue to prioritize jobs and economic opportunities, which is what our families need and want,” said Senator Catharine Young (R,C,I-Olean).

“Schools in my Senate district will receive a nearly $16 million funding increase from the Governor’s $611 million proposal in statewide general education aid.  He also proposes $203 million in extra funds to help schools offset rising pension costs, which will help relieve some of the financial pressures that our local school districts are experiencing. It is an issue that I have been hearing a lot about,” she said.

“I have questions about his plan to award $75 million in competitive grants for full day Pre-K, and longer school days and school year. Many districts are struggling and need general school aid. Most rural schools do not have the resources to do grant writing, which puts them at a disadvantage. It would be better for my district to allocate the $75 million to high-needs, low-wealth schools that really need the help,” Senator Young said.

“The budget is a massive document, and there are many areas that will be analyzed through our review process. Like every year, I expect to hear a great deal of feedback from my constituents regarding how the Governor’s budget proposal impacts them, and I look forward to listening to their input,” Senator Young said.

“Now that the Governor has released his plan, we will begin budget hearings to identify areas of the budget that need to be improved. The devil is always in the details, and we will go through his proposal with a fine toothed comb,” Senator Young said.

-30-