Statement by Senator Carlucci on Governor Cuomo's Executive Budget Address and Proposal Not to Raise Taxes

"Once again, the Governor struck the right tone of fiscal discipline and smart investment in New York State.  This is a clear and decisive victory for both our schools and property taxpayers across the Hudson Valley.   By putting the politics aside, together we can improve the funding formula for our school districts, relieve the burden off our local municipalities, and continue to balance Albany's checkbook.

"The Governor's budget proposal lays out a fiscally responsible budget blueprint that closes a $1.3 billion dollar budget gap without raising taxes or fees.   Through greater cost efficiencies and consolidation, we will be able to cap spending increases below 2 percent for a third consecutive year in a row, protect commuters from toll hike increases, and provide local governments additional mandate relief when tackling their growing pension costs.

"At the same time, this budget will make the critical education and economic investments needed that allows us to build upon a progressive New York.  Education aid will increase nearly $300 per student each year, including directing $25 million dollars to establishing full-day Pre-K for high-needs districts in low-income communities.  This plan also calls for increasing the minimum wage to $8.75 per hour while continuing to fund $220 million dollars for New York's regional economic development councils.

“This is a comprehensive and cost-effective path that will move New York forward.  I look forward to working with the Governor and my colleagues in the Legislature to pass another on-time budget agreement that encourages job creation and grows our economy.”

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