Yesterday, Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon (D-C Marcy) attended a joint budget hearing on economic development and the arts. At the hearing, she questioned New York State Department of Economic Development Commissioner Hope Knight and New York State Office of General Services Commissioner Jeanette Moy about the FY 24-25 Executive Budget.

“My number one priority in the New York State Assembly is ensuring that we are passing legislation that will help our small businesses and make it easier for entrepreneurs to start businesses,” said Assemblywoman Buttenschon. “In addition to helping our small businesses, an important part of economic development is ensuring that our Higher Education institutions can equip students with the necessary skills to enter the workforce.”

At the hearing, Assemblywoman Buttenschon asked Commissioner Knight if the Executive Budget provides enough resources for the Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise (MWBE) program and workforce housing programs. The Commissioner explained that the budget would provide the necessary funding and resources for the program to continue. She also emphasized the importance of expanding workforce housing programs.

Assemblywoman Buttenschon also asked Commissioner Knight and Commissioner Moy about any high school and community college programs the state offers. They mentioned existing programs to work with students on developing skills for advanced manufacturing and pathways for students to pursue a career in a state agency. Assemblywoman Buttenschon plans to follow up with both of them on how the budget will create additional programs.

"A budget is all about priorities. Our state budget must continue to invest in our small businesses and provide our high school students with the skills they need to enter the workforce. I thank Commissioner Knight and Moy for their testimony today and look forward to working with them to support our small businesses in the 119^th Assembly District.”