Assemblyman Scott Gray (R-Watertown) released the latest episode of “The Gray Area” video series. In this week’s episode, Gray discusses the state budget progress and the detrimental impact of “messages of necessity” on New York taxpayers. Gray also speaks on his agricultural bill voted down in the Assembly Transportation Committee this week, blocking it from becoming law that would give desperately needed support to farmers.

“We are now more than 25 days late for the state budget and most Assembly members have left the capital. The stakes are high for all of those involved in delaying this budget, especially the Governor who is just beginning her first full term. While there appears to be a settlement as of Thursday evening— the Governor states a tentative deal was made with lawmakers—it does not change that fact that the belated and secretive manner in which negotiations have been conducted is government at its worst.”

“What we now need to be wary of are ‘messages of necessity’ used from the legislative Majorities to bypass the constitutionally required three-day aging process once budget bills are introduced, further hiding critical information from taxpayers and voters. The ‘aging’ provision is critical in ensuring the public, press and all interested individuals have an opportunity to comment on the budget bills before they are enacted into law. I join my colleagues in imploring the governor not to issue a message of necessity.”

“Also, this week, my agricultural bill, A.5352, was held in committee by members of the Assembly Majority Conference for future consideration. If enacted, this bill would remove thruway tolls for agricultural truckers transporting products, like milk or produce, within New York state. This would help out farmers immensely by reducing transportation costs, ultimately lowering food costs for consumers.”

“I will continue to advocate for bill A.5352 and fight for a transparent budget that the public has the right to review. Look out for next week’s episode of The Gray Area as we are expected to ramp up progress. As always, I look forward to seeing you in Albany and back in the district. Don’t hesitate to call my office staff with questions, comments or concerns—it is our privilege to serve you,” Gray concluded.

Watch the full episode here: [https://youtu.be/G7qLTKhay0M]