Senator Rob Rolison Issues Statement on Governor Hochul's Fiscal Year 2024 Executive Budget

State Senator Rob Rolison (39th District) today issued the below statement following release of the governor's Executive Budget proposal:

"Governor Hochul's Executive Budget is an ambitious conversation-starter for members of the legislative and executive branches as we progress through the budget-negotiation process. I intend to fully review the governor's proposals and how these budget priorities would impact Hudson Valley residents. Two things are already clear, however.

"One, the Senate's rank-and-file members must have a seat at the table again. It makes no sense to pass a $227 billion spending plan without the input and deliberation of the people's representatives. Governor Hochul must repudiate business as usual in the Capitol, take negotiations out of Albany's backrooms, and expose them to the sunlight of public opinion for all to see.

"Second, everyday New Yorkers are currently faced with a serious affordability crisis that is undermining savings and raising the price of ordinary staples like gas and groceries. Additional taxes and fees could make matters worse. Middle-class families have been forced to tighten their belts to make ends meet. Their state government should do the same.

"With these considerations in mind, I look forward to working with members of both parties to pass a commonsense state budget that meets the demands of the moment, and leaves partisan gamesmanship aside."