Jacobs, Peoples-Stokes Announce Legislation Speeding Up $9 Million to Buffalo Schools

(Buffalo, New York) - New York State Senator Chris Jacobs (60^th SD) and Assemblywoman Crystal D. Peoples-Stokes (141^st AD) announced legislation that will have a $9 million positive impact on the Buffalo School District budget has passed both houses of the legislature.  The announcement takes on even greater meaning in the wake of recent reports that the District faces an $8.5 million gap in their upcoming budget year.

“I believe when we work together we can find creative ways to solve problems without always costing the taxpayers more money,” said Jacobs. “This legislation now requires that the state reimburse the School District for payments to Buffalo charter schools in the same year that the payments are made.  Now all we need is for the Governor to sign this into law,” Jacobs added.

“This is the best possible outcome that we could have hoped for. Charter school students get the resources that they need, and now public school students will as well.  Once enacted, all BPS departments should have more resources available to support academic classroom instruction.  On behalf of the Buffalo public school students, their parents, district administrators and school staff, I urge Governor Cuomo to sign this bill into law,” stated Assemblywoman Crystal D. Peoples-Stokes.

Current state law allows a 1-year lag before reimbursements are made, placing a significant hardship on already cash strapped school districts.  Senator Jacobs and Assemblywoman Crystal Peoples-Stokes have been working with the Buffalo School’s leadership to pass this change in the law for nearly two years.  The legislation passed in the Assembly in March and the Senate approved the measure yesterday.

“My profound thanks to Senator Jacobs and Assemblywoman Peoples-Stokes, both of whom are staunch advocates for the Buffalo Public Schools,” said Superintendent Dr. Kriner Cash.  “Both have fought hard for funding that supports our vision and plan to transform the Buffalo Public Schools and our district is grateful for their efforts.”