By New York State Senator Joseph A. Griffo, R-C-Rome, 53rd District
I am disappointed, but not surprised, that the State Budget is late for the fifth time since the governor took office. Instead of doing their job on time and meeting their constitutional obligation of approving a budget by April 1, the Democratic majorities in the Legislature and the governor have shown no urgency in reaching a deal. Instead, they keep passing multi-billion-dollar extenders just to keep government running.
Then, when a final deal is reached, it is rushed through using messages of necessity to avoid public scrutiny and bypass the required review period.
Sadly, this has become the norm in Albany where the budget is negotiated behind closed doors between the majorities and governor. New Yorkers are kept in the dark about how their hard-earned tax dollars are spent.
Late budgets have real consequences, and delays can create significant challenges.
Struggling New Yorkers seeking relief from skyrocketing utility bills are forced to wait even longer. Local governments and school districts, with their own budget votes right around the corner in May, wait to see much aid they will receive this year and are forced to plan in the dark. Healthcare providers, small businesses, and families who depend on the state are left waiting for answers, clarity, and certainty.
One-party control of state government is not working. We can see some of the reasons why in recent budgets.
Spending has increased to unsustainable levels. More financial burdens have been placed on residents. Additional regulations and mandates have been put on schools, businesses, and communities. Problematic policies that should be debated and discussed openly and transparently have been included in budgets.
New York’s budget process lacks transparency. Budget bills are hundreds of pages long, often presented at the last minute and then debated and passed in the dead of night while New Yorkers are sleeping and without the opportunity to thoroughly review and examine them. This is not the right way to do things. I’ve introduced legislation (S.3376) that establishes a New York State Independent Budget Office to provide objective, non-partisan analyses of State revenues, expenditures and management practices.
Accurate, up-to-date information is a key ingredient for prudent, timely budgetary and mature policy decisions. This newly created office will provide such information to all state lawmakers. New Yorkers deserve an on-time, transparent budget that focuses on affordability, public safety, and responsible spending.
