“This year’s budget process has once again raised important questions about how we spend taxpayer dollars—and whether we’re doing so efficiently, responsibly and with real accountability.

While I continue to have serious concerns about the overall size and scope of spending in our state’s budget, I voted in favor of the education, labor and family assistance bill as well as the capital and revenue bills. These sections of the budget contain key provisions that will benefit families, strengthen infrastructure and deliver meaningful tax relief to hardworking New Yorkers.

That said, voting for certain parts of the budget does not mean giving a blank check to state government. I am deeply concerned about the lack of long-term fiscal discipline and the absence of strong accountability measures that would ensure taxpayer funds are being used effectively and transparently. Our policies need to deliver real value to the people of our state, not just enact more government spending for the sake of spending.”