“I am disappointed by the continued lack of progress on the state budget this week. Today, a third extension was passed to prolong the process even further. The Assembly Majority Conference is persisting with closed-door negotiations and intransigence. It’s also important to note that these issues–bail reform and housing–are policy related. Why are we holding up the finalization of the state budget with issues that can be discussed outside of this process? The dysfunction must come to an end so these critical issues can be addressed properly. This holdup is also affecting school funding, library funding, municipal funding and more that rely on money from the state budget. Our students, hardworking individuals and communities deserve better.”