As a result of widespread corruption and the apparent bid-rigging associated with New York’s economic development programs like the Buffalo Billion and the poor performance of Gov. Cuomo’s hallmark initiative, START-UP NY, Assemblyman Karl Brabenec (R,TCN-Deepark) today is calling for a vote on a bill, A.5657a, that would provide greater oversight, transparency and auditing of how New York spends tax dollars on these programs.

Brabenec made his announcement following a press conference held in Albany by Assembly Minority Leader Brian M. Kolb (R,C,I,Ref-Canandaigua) and numerous Assembly Minority colleagues.

“This is about eliminating wasteful spending, cronyism and corruption surrounding the state’s failed economic development programs,” Brabenec said. “While families all across the state are fighting to put food on the table because of record-high taxes, Gov. Cuomo and state leaders continue to perpetuate these failed programs that cost us tens of millions, and that is unacceptable. The record on these programs is abysmal and I am once again calling for a halt of payments to START-UP NY and a vote on this bill before session adjourns for the summer.”