“If we enact the governor’s Executive Budget, state spending will have increased by $60 billion in the past five years—a 35% jump. Further, if we enact the Assembly or Senate One-House Budget proposals, state spending will have increased by $73 billion in the past five years—a 42% jump. Given how much the state budget has grown over the past few years and how much it could grow this year, there is no excuse for a lack of funding for programs in need throughout the state.

“Funding needs to be restored for the Clean Water Infrastructure Act, restored for the Housing Opportunities Program for the Elderly, increased for the human services Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA), increased for the Environmental Protection Fund, increased for Access to Home for those with disabilities and much more. As a member of the New York State Assembly Environmental Conservation and Housing committees, I have a duty to act in the best interest of Long Island residents to ensure their needs are not neglected. Protecting the Long Island Sound, establishing reliable water filtration and sewer systems to maintain access to water and tending to the needs of seniors and struggling families in our communities all require significant funding—more than what is currently being proposed.

“I sincerely hope the Assembly Majority Conference hears the concerns from the New York public and the Assembly Minority Conference so we can build an adequate budget that will yield the support and financial relief so many New Yorkers and organizations need.”