“Albany’s new political dynamic is stirring up some old problems.

“For the first time, the Legislature and governor failed to reach a consensus on state revenues, instead deferring to the comptroller to determine the available funding included in the final state budget. I hope this isn’t a sign of what’s to come.

“The inability to agree on the most basic element of the state budget is a disturbing reminder of Albany dysfunction at its worst. Over the coming weeks, decisions will be made about the future of New York’s most important programs and how billions of public dollars will be distributed. Given what we’ve seen so far, it’s hard to be encouraged by the performance and policies being delivered by the new one-party system in the Capitol.  

As we move toward the April 1 deadline, Gov. Cuomo and the Legislature must commit to a good-faith effort to craft a spending plan. It will be a major disappointment should ongoing political posturing and gamesmanship get in the way of the common sense, timely, and fiscally responsible budget New Yorkers deserve.”