Larkin: Tough Negotiations Result In Budget Wins For Hudson Valley Families

Senator Bill Larkin (R-C, 39^th District) today helped pass a sixth consecutive on-time State Budget that holds the growth of state spending to two percent and contains a $4.2 billion tax cut for middle class families. The budget also completely eliminates the disastrous GEA education cuts and provides record levels of state school aid.   

“This year’s budget was one of the toughest negotiated spending plans in recent memory-with the end result being a good budget with several notable wins for Hudson Valley families, such as a $4.2 billion tax cut, paid family leave and historic levels of funding for our local schools,” said Senator Larkin. “I am pleased that I could work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to deliver a budget that will enhance the quality of life for families while making the Hudson Valley a more affordable place to call home.”   

Senator Larkin noted that several highlights in this year’s finalized state spending plan for Hudson Valley families include:

· A landmark, new tax cut of $4.2 billion for millions of middle class New Yorkers, as well as thousands of small businesses;  

· A record-high level of school aid, as well as the complete elimination of the disastrous GEA budget cuts; and

·  Major new investments in job training, health care and programs to combat heroin addiction;  

· Paid family leave; and

· Fair and equitable funding for transportation projects and safer roads across the state.

The budget was a big win for education, containing a record $25 billion in education aid and an increase in Higher Education support to help make college more affordable for families, while helping to keep local education costs stable.

“By fully eliminating the disastrous GEA education cuts, we have delivered on a crucial promise for our children’s future and brought fairness to the way we distribute valuable state resources,” said Senator Larkin.  “This record funding will give our students the tools and resources they need to achieve a first class education and will help stabilize local property taxes.”