2016-17 State Budget Ends Gap Elimination Adjustment

Albany, NY – State Senator Michael H. Ranzenhofer has announced today that the Gap Elimination Adjustment (GEA) budget cuts for school districts have been permanently eliminated.  The 2016-17 State Budget abolishes the $434 million remaining of the GEA cuts this school year.

Senator Ranzenhofer advocated for the end to the GEA as a member of the Joint Budget Subcommittee for Education.

“I vowed earlier this year to do away with the GEA for students, parents and our communities, and I kept my word.  While Governor Cuomo proposed a phase-out over two years, I am proud to report an end to the GEA this school year,” said Ranzenhofer.  “Finally, millions of dollars will be restored to our school districts, and a better future is ahead for our children.  This boost in funding will also help to protect taxpayers from higher property taxes.  This is a major victory for parents and taxpayers.”

The GEA was first imposed in 2010 by former Governor David Paterson and the Democrats who controlled the Senate and Assembly.  Senator Ranzenhofer voted against the GEA because it made severe cuts to the bottom lines of school districts in Western New York.

Since it was first approved, Senator Ranzenhofer has been leading the charge to eradicate the GEA and deliver major funding increases to help mitigate its devastating impact on education.  Last year alone, Senator Ranzenhofer successfully pushed for an additional $603 million to help schools overcome the GEA challenge.

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