Statement on 2021-22 State Budget

ALBANY, 04/07/21 -- State Senator Peter Oberacker (R/C – Schenevus) voted “no” on nine of the ten bills that comprise the 2021-22 state budget.

“Misplaced priorities.  That is how I would describe the new state budget, which spends at a reckless rate and raises taxes to new highs.  As individuals, families, and small businesses tighten their belts, Albany Democrats, flush with billions of dollars in federal aid, are going on an unprecedented spending spree – blowing through the aid from Washington and raising taxes by billions as well.    

“Overall state spending tops $212 billion, that’s a $20 billion increase in just one year and more than Florida and Texas combined.  The budget boasts a $2.1 billion giveaway for undocumented immigrants, lacks parity for upstate and downstate infrastructure projects, and neglects any semblance of long-term financial planning.

“The only bill I voted in favor of included education aid critical to my rural school districts, BOCES programs, and college students.  The funds included, if applied toward both short and long-term needs, will be gamechangers for our young people and should also help keep property taxes in check.        

“New Yorkers have experienced unimaginable hardships over the past year due to the COVID pandemic.  We continue to lead the nation in outmigration and this dysfunctional budget crafted entirely in secret by one-party will further compound our difficulties.”

-30-