Assemblyman Dave McDonough (R,C,I-Merrick) today criticized Gov. Cuomo’s executive budget proposal for placing a $69 million tax on health insurance plans to cover the costs of President Obama’s public health exchange. The tax will most likely be passed on to consumers as a result of mandated self sustainability for states participating in the Affordable Care Act beginning this year. McDonough said the tax came as a surprise and that our residents already are burdened by the highest taxes in the nation.

“Residents and businesses already are burdened by some of the highest taxes in the nation,” McDonough said. “Gov. Cuomo chose to set up a public health marketplace in New York without consulting the legislature, and now he is asking the legislature and taxpayers to pay the bill. Those who purchase health insurance through the private sector should not be required to foot the bill for those who purchase healthcare publicly.”

McDonough’s comments come after a New York Post article revealed the governor’s plan to include his tax in this year’s enacted budget. The tax will cost about $25 extra for each person insured under Gov. Cuomo’s public health system. Health insurance lobbyists say the new tax will lead to higher premiums and less affordable health insurance in New York State.