“For the first time since 1983, New York State is on track to have an early budget. While on-time, this budget proved to be a difficult one. Due to the economic crisis the state was facing, cuts had to be made and measures had to be taken to rein in spending. Difficult decisions had to be made and with a heavy heart, I did not make these decisions lightly. I worked to ensure these cuts were made responsibly and didn’t fall solely on the backs of hard working families. We invested in our children through support of education and higher education. We also restored funding to healthcare to assist our seniors and the most needy.

“We were able to soften harsh cuts and provided funding for vital job programs that will put New York back on the path to economic stability. The budget forms the Regional Economic Development Councils to be headed by Lt. Governor Duffy. The budget also strengthens the Excelsior Jobs program and provides capital funding for projects necessary to jumpstart New York’s economy.

“Families across the state have had to tighten their belts to balance their budgets and it is time that the state did the same. I will continue to work with my colleagues in the Assembly to do all we can to turn New York’s economy around.”