Griffo: Additional funding for libraries, restoration of EWR funds part of end of session negotiations

ALBANY – New York State Senate Deputy Minority Leader Joseph Griffo, R-I-C-Rome, announced early Friday morning that he voted in support of legislation that will restore funding for repairs to roads damaged by winter weather and will provide additional funds to libraries.

The legislation restores $65 million for Extreme Winter Recovery. The funding, which had been secured by Senate Republicans in previous years, was not included in the 2019-20 State Budget.

“Residents across New York State depend on safe, reliable and well-maintained roads as they go about their daily lives. However, it is no secret that some of the roads within our communities are in rough shape,” Deputy Minority Leader Griffo said. “This funding is allocated to localities through the Consolidated Local Street and Highway Improvement Program (CHIPS) and will help local governments make needed repairs to their roads that have been damaged by winter weather.”

The legislation also redirects $20 million to libraries throughout the state. 

“Our public libraries have evolved into more than just a place where people can check out books. They are now community spaces that offer a variety of important services and resources to families, seniors and residents,” Deputy Minority Leader Griffo. “I know that this additional funding will help our libraries to flourish and to become an even stronger part of communities they serve.”

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