Griffo statement on governor’s proposed budget

“While the governor’s proposed budget contains elements that I concur with such as additional support for the mental health system and a greater investment in education, I remain concerned with the unsustainable and out-of-control spending approach that she hopes to undertake.

This year’s proposed budget doesn’t make the state more affordable, and it doesn’t provide real relief to New Yorkers and families. It lacks specificity, imposes the state’s will on local governments, raids county governments and includes policy, which I have always said should be considered and discussed openly and transparently outside of the budget process. 

This tax and spend approach is nothing new for Albany. Much like the movie ‘Groundhog Day’ starring Bill Murray, it seems we’ve been stuck in a time loop for the last several years, and we’ve seen the same story with the budget played out over and over again because of one-party control and one-region domination of state government. 

Hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers continue to flee our state for many reasons, including a lack of opportunity, public safety concerns and because they can’t afford to live here anymore. Additionally, burdensome regulations and mandates are crushing businesses, schools and local governments. It is my fear that this budget will force many more to look for better opportunities elsewhere.  

We can stop this exodus and improve the future of our state by providing for significant tax relief, improving the state’s economic and business climate, enhancing public safety, limiting state spending, improving infrastructure and undertaking other critical and important measures that will benefit those living and doing business here.”