New York lawmakers are voicing concern over Governor Kathy Hochul’s record-breaking $252 billion executive budget, with critics calling it unsustainable and dismissive of the state’s long-term affordability issues. The proposal, unveiled earlier today, reflects a $19 billion increase from last year’s budget and includes sweeping investments in education, housing, transportation, and public safety.
State Senator Tom O’Mara (R-C, Big Flats) led the charge against the plan, labeling it part of an ongoing “spend, spend, spend” addiction that he says has fueled a 40% growth in state spending since 2019. “Governor Hochul and Albany Democrats are addicted to spending,” O’Mara said, arguing the proposal burdens middle-class taxpayers and threatens to accelerate population loss in a state he describes as one of the nation’s least affordable.
Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay echoed these sentiments, pointing to Hochul’s call for fiscal responsibility during her State of the State address just a week ago. “That optimism lasted exactly one week,” Barclay said. “This proposal fails to lay the groundwork for the long-term solutions needed to make our state economically stronger.”
The proposed budget includes $5 billion in tax cuts and rebates aimed at easing the financial strain on New Yorkers, alongside historic investments in education, mental health care, and climate initiatives. It also sets aside $21 billion in reserves for future downturns. Hochul maintains the spending increases are essential to keep New York safe and affordable.
“A budget is more than just numbers on a page – it tells the story of who we are, what we value, and what we’re fighting for,” Hochul said during the announcement, emphasizing her commitment to affordability and public safety.
But critics argue the numbers don’t add up. Assemblyman Jeff Gallahan (R-C, Manchester) called the budget “a slap in the face to New York taxpayers and hardworking families,” while accusing Hochul of ignoring common-sense spending controls. Meanwhile, Senate and Assembly Republicans have warned of additional fiscal strain as the Legislature considers further increases to the proposed budget.
As lawmakers prepare for weeks of budget hearings, Hochul faces pressure to justify her spending plan in the face of mounting skepticism. For her part, the governor remains confident in her administration’s fiscal approach, asserting that the budget addresses the critical needs of all New Yorkers.
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