Senator Patrick M. Gallivan, (R-C, Elma) issued the following statement:

"The governor’s proposed budget raises several concerns.

First, it increases spending by $4 billion, despite a projected deficit of $4.3 billion.  The governor also admits the state faces sizable deficits in the future, but the budget does little to address these funding shortfalls.

It is also clear that the national migrant situation has turned into a fiscal crisis for the state.  The governor’s proposal to spend $2.4 billion, including $500 million from the state’s reserves, to address the issue represents about half of the overall increase in state spending.

Despite an across-the-board increase in school aid, many districts will see their funding decrease under this plan. The legislature must ensure that education funding is distributed equitably, and students continue to receive quality services. 

The budget proposal fails to adequately address the high cost of living and running a business in New York. I urge my Senate and Assembly colleagues to adopt a budget that spends responsibly and makes our state a more affordable place to live, work and raise a family."              

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