State Senator Kevin Parker’s Statement on Passage of 2016-2017 State Budget

Albany, N.Y. – Today, State Senator Kevin Parker issued the following statement in response to the passage of the 2016 – 2017 New York State Budget:

“I applaud the Governor and our Legislative leaders for the accomplishments made in this year's budget as it ensures funding for various policies that will directly benefit the constituents of the 21^st Senate District and New York State.”

“With historic increases in school aid for marginalized communities, the most comprehensive paid family leave policy in the nation, a significant minimum wage increase for hardworking New Yorkers, and a tuition freeze at our City and State universities, this year’s budget sets a new precedent in fairness for the working families across our great State.”

“However, there is much more we need to accomplish on behalf of our hardworking families and communities. I stand eager to continue working with my colleagues in the Legislature to address the challenges of our communities that were left out of this year's budget like Raise the Age and Ban the Box legislation, the DREAM Act for children who were brought to our country through no fault of their own, my Special Prosecutor bill that will ensure justice is not deferred due to the inherent conflict of interest amongst our District Attorney’s and our police officer’s, and honoring the Campaign for Fiscal Equity’s ruling by finally appropriating the funds owed to New York City public schools and their students.”

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