Based on analysis by Ways and Means analysts, it appears that Governor Paterson’s proposed fiscal year 2010-11 budget could cost a family of four in New York as much as $1,812 this year. Assemblyman Dave McDonough (R,C,I – Merrick) has called for cuts in spending and a roll back of the taxes from last year, already which have caused thousands of families and businesses to move out of this state for greener pastures. The proposed budget put forth by Governor Paterson must be acted on by the legislature by the end of the current fiscal year on March 31, 2010.

“I voted against last year’s budget and the ensuing Deficit Reduction Plan because, in both pieces of legislation, the Governor failed to understand the fiscal problems this state is facing and continued to spend recklessly,” said Assemblyman McDonough. “Although he has sounded the correct tone this year and spoken about the fiscal crisis New York is facing, the governor still spends more and taxes more than he did even last year, which is unacceptable to millions of New York families.”

Property owners in Nassau County, who already pay the second highest property taxes in the nation, now could face any of the following tax and fee increases as a result of the governor’s overspending:

• $164 for each family in new state debt;
• $25 for a local option gross receipts utilities tax on energy;
• $75 cut in the Tuition Assistance Program (TAP);
• $485 SUNY tuition hike;
• $50 health insurance premium increase for families covered by small businesses;
• $18 in new court fees;
• $100 traffic fine for the controversial new Speed Enforcement Cameras;
• $750 property tax increase as a result of reductions in school aid and aid to municipalities;
• $102 so-called “Sugar Tax” on soft drinks, syrups and powder; and
• $43 cigarette tax increase.

“Although not all of these tax and fee increases are applicable to all New Yorkers, the vast majority of residents will see more money coming out of their pocket as a result of increased government spending,” concluded McDonough. “I will fight these increases in addition to any increases in spending put forth by the majority parties in either the Senate or the Assembly. 2010 must be a year of reform, and it starts with reducing state spending.”