Seward Takes Key Role in State Budget Negotiations

ALBANY, 03/20/17 -- State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I/Ref – Oneonta) has been named co-chairman of the general government/local assistance budget conference committee and will also serve as a member of the education budget conference committee.

“Bipartisan conference committees have been instrumental in producing six consecutive on-time budgets, and I am confident this process will deliver again this year,” said Senator Seward.  “A final budget that helps make New York more affordable for families and businesses while creating opportunities for future growth is within reach.”

The conference committees are made up of five senators and five assemblymen tasked with negotiating budget differences between the houses, in concert with the governor, to develop a final spending plan. 

Regarding his assignment as co-chairman of the general government/local assistance budget conference committee, Senator Seward said:

“Along with ensuring appropriate state funding is available to support state agencies and our local governments, I am also focused on making certain that our state budget is fiscally sound and we stick to a state spending cap.”

Regarding his education conference committee assignment Senator Seward said:

“The senate budget resolution includes a year-to-year education aid increase of $1.2 billion and offers schools more flexibility in how they utilize state funding.  Moving forward, I will work to protect this investment in our future and ensure that our low-wealth, high-need rural schools receive their fair share of state aid.  This funding is critical to meet classroom needs so students can excel and to help keep local property taxes in check.” 

The conference committees conduct open, public meetings, which can be viewed on-line at www.nysenate.gov.

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