“After weeks of stagnation and disagreement, I can finally say my first budget process is complete. While I take no joy in the way this process has played out, I am pleased to have delivered on some vital issues for the residents of my district. The inclusion of ridesharing for Western New York will finally mean a safe and reliable option for our community. Also, increased tuition assistance (TAP) will make college more affordable, and the inclusion of tax credits for youth apprenticeships will mean increased opportunities for our youth to gain on-the-job experience while decreasing the tax burden on small-business owners.

“However, governing is a matter of give and take. While you may obtain some of the top items on your priority list, compromise is always necessary to avoid political gridlock at the expense of all parties involved.

“I am disheartened to see the inclusion of a confusing and muddled ‘Raise the Age’ provision, which will place an undue burden on the already backed-up family court system in our state. I am hoping for oversight on ‘Raise the Age’ over the next year so we truly accomplish the goal that’s intended. There is significant methodology that needs to be reviewed to make this better.”