Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,I,C-Batavia) is supporting legislation that would restore $90 million in cuts to the Office of People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) by using money earmarked to lure film and television productions to New York. The assemblyman pointed to a startling failure in the budget’s prioritization that allowed this arrangement to occur in the first place.

“To take from people with developmental disabilities and their families while giving to Hollywood stars is unfair, irresponsible and appalling,” said Hawley. “In a time of fiscal crisis and economic peril, budgeting is all about prioritizing, and this year’s state budget failed to protect the programs and services that matter most. I joined my Assembly Minority colleagues in advancing an amendment to restore these cuts, and this legislation is the next step in our fight to right this wrong and support our most vulnerable citizens rather than try to lure Hollywood stars to New York City.”

This year’s state budget included a $90 million cut to OPWDD as well as $420 million for the Empire State Film Tax Credit. Hawley voted against both provisions, in addition to supporting the amendment restoring OPWDD funding.