“The Assembly budget proposal builds on the executive’s budget by improving New Yorkers’ access to mental health care, providing greater support to our health care professionals and boosting funding for our schools and libraries.

“These past few years have highlighted the importance of mental health care. Stressors like the COVID-19 pandemic and inflation hit New Yorkers with mental illnesses and substance use disorders especially hard. That is why the Assembly budget proposal supports New York’s mental health care, from funding children’s mental health programs to increasing access to in-patient psychiatric care.

“Across our state and country, nurses and other health care workers tirelessly care for our loved ones, sometimes for salaries that are barely higher than the minimum wage. It is time we change that. Our budget proposal provides for increased compensation and would deliver new resources to make these local heroes’ jobs easier. Investing in the health of our communities is crucial to building a more resilient New York.

“The Assembly proposal also makes significant investments in our schools and libraries, such as doubling the executive’s proposed funding for universal full-day prekindergarten, so we can set children on a path for brighter futures. Our proposed capital investments for libraries would also ensure that New Yorkers can access these community hubs’ educational programs, technology and local resources.

“However, our work is not finished yet. As we continue working through the budget process, I will keep fighting for resources to support our families and help our communities thrive.”