SENATOR OBERACKER CALLS FOR VITAL TRANSPORTATION FUNDING

ALBANY, 03/19/24 -- State Senator Peter Oberacker (R/C – Schenevus) today took part in the initial meeting of the joint budget conference committee on transportation.

“Bipartisan conference committees are a key part of the budget process as we work to reconcile differences between proposals from the governor, senate, and assembly.  It is crucial that legislative leaders adhere to the public budget discussions and avoid the Albany tradition of cutting backroom deals that fail to put all New Yorkers first,” said Senator Oberacker.    

Regarding his assignment on the transportation budget conference committee, Senator Oberacker said:

“Local roads and bridges, and the dedicated workers who maintain them, are vital to public safety and our economy.  I have met with local highway superintendents and elected officials throughout the 51st Senate District and the message is clear  - costs to repair and maintain roads are rising and increased state funding is needed to ensure infrastructure needs are met.  I am continuing to press for a final transportation budget that will lead to improved roads and bridges, while keeping local taxes in check.  It is also key that  funding is spread evenly throughout the state and not solely funneled to the MTA and New York City.

“I am pleased that the senate one-house budget includes changes to the governor’s proposal regarding limousine safety laws, most notably, the extension of the Stretch Limousine Passenger Safety Task Force which was shut down prematurely.”

The conference committees are made up of five senators and five assemblymen tasked with negotiating budget differences between the houses, in concert with the governor, to develop a final spending plan.  

“There is a great deal of work ahead as we near the April 1st budget deadline and I look forward to the discussions moving forward.  A fiscally sound budget that meets the needs of those I represent with a focus on affordability, public safety, and improved opportunities is my goal,” Senator Oberacker concluded.

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