By New York State Senator Joseph A. Griffo, R-C-Rome, 53rd District
The Senate and Assembly majorities recently passed their One-House Budget Resolutions, which marked the start of the budget negotiating process and is a direct reflection of where they would like to take the state.
While there are aspects of the Senate’s Resolution that I do agree with, I could not support it because it increases spending to unsustainable levels (a staggering $17 billion increase over the current budget), will further burden New Yorkers and their families and will not make the state more affordable.
This proposal raises taxes, does not effectively address serious public safety concerns, lacks parity between all regions of the state, will implement additional onerous mandates and unaffordable and unrealistic energy regulations that will potentially eliminate the use of natural gas to heat homes and businesses and will result in increased energy bills.
It also contains policy items, which I have always said should be discussed openly and transparently outside of the budget.
Unfortunately, this is nothing new in Albany.
As a result of one-party control and the leadership of the legislative majorities and governor over the last several years, we have seen a mass exodus of New Yorkers. They are fleeing because of problematic, flawed and out-of-touch policies that have made it more difficult to live, work and do business in the state.
I continue to advocate for sensible solutions and constructive alternatives that will help struggling New Yorkers and their families, will strengthen the state’s economy, communities, schools, businesses, agriculture and infrastructure and will improve public safety.
We need to lessen the tax burden on taxpayers, cut crippling energy costs, reduce regulations and mandates, address safety concerns and improve the state’s business climate. If we do not, we will continue to see people flee our state at an alarming rate.
As the budget process moves forward, I will continue to push for a fiscally responsible budget and for policies and reforms that will make our state safer, stronger and more affordable.
