SENATOR GOLDEN STATEMENT ON GOVERNOR CUOMO’S STATE OF THE STATE ADDRESS

Albany – State Senator Martin J. Golden (R-C-I, Brooklyn) has issued the following statement in response to Governor Cuomo’s 2016 State of the State address delivered today in the State Capitol:

“Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has put forth an ambitious agenda for 2016.  As I listened to the Governor's address this afternoon, I agree that working together, we can keep New York moving in the right direction. My colleagues and I in the Senate have already set the framework for a platform that will focus on unique priorities Statewide.

Locally, here in Brooklyn, I continue to support the advancement of cutting edge industries that are creating jobs for the new marketplace. As such, the continued expansion of the bio technology industry, the protection of tax breaks for businesses, and the full utilization of the commercial and retail space in locations such as the Brooklyn Army Terminal and Industry City. A multi-faceted economic approach will allow people to live, work and raise a family in their own backyard.

The Governor's spotlight on mass transit improvements and toll relief is encouraging. I remain steadfast in working with the MTA to improve bus and subway service, while concentrating on the system's infrastructure locally. The Governor has proposed toll relief for those who regularly travel the New York State Thruway, therefore he should approve my proposal that would reduce the cost of the Verrazano Bridge toll for Brooklyn residents. I believe that this is the year New Yorkers will finally be less burdened by exorbitant tolls.

Although I have found common ground in the Governor's 2016 plan, I have serious concerns about the adverse economic impact to New York City. Governor Cuomo is now asking the taxpayers of the Big Apple to shoulder the expense of an overzealous spending plan. Contribution increases to the City University of New York, the cost of Medicaid growth Statewide, and efforts to create and maintain affordable and supportive housing throughout the State are among his requests. Equally concerning is the Governor's $100 billion capital plan that will most certainly increase the State's debt which the taxpayers of New York City will someday have to pay."