Statement by Senator Carlucci on New York State Reaching an Historic Third Consecutive On-Time and Early Budget

“This historic budget agreement clearly demonstrates to all New Yorkers that Albany is focused on delivering real results for the middle class.  For the third year in a row, New York State has created a fiscally sound and responsible budget that cuts taxes and creates jobs.  This budget closes a $1.3 billion dollar gap with no new taxes or fees while also phasing out the 18-a Utility Assessment that would otherwise hit homeowners’ pocketbooks.

"While our leaders in Congress continue to be plagued by chronic dysfunction, here in Albany we have shown an ability to forge compromise, build consensus, and work together in a bipartisan fashion.  With the understanding that we cannot wait for Washington to act, we have also enacted progressive legislation here in New York that for the first time will raise the minimum wage from $7.25 per hour to $9.00 per hour over the course of three years.  After years of endless chatter and empty promises, we have finally followed through on our promise to make sure that hardworking New Yorkers living at the poverty level have a chance to climb the economic ladder.

"While various components of this budget agreement continue to be ironed out, I continue to remain focused on fully restoring funding to nonprofit providers who service those with developmental disabilities.  A $120 million dollar cut to the OPWDD budget is too steep a price to pay, and as Chairman of the Senate Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities Committee I will do everything possible to avoid these devastating cuts."

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