Like every year, the Governor’s Executive Budget is the starting point for months of negotiation as legislators and the public review thousands of pages of funding and policy proposals. As we begin these discussions and negotiations, there is one crucial question I will be asking myself, my colleagues, and the Governor: does this budget provide meaningful relief for New Yorkers? Relief from the rising cost of taxes, utilities, housing, insurance, and healthcare to name only a few. Relief that will keep businesses, jobs, and our children and grandchildren in New York State. That is what I will be focused on during this budget cycle and what I will continue to fight for.