Assemblyman Josh Jensen (R,C–Greece), Ranking Member of the Assembly Health Committee, today expressed concerns after voting against the state Assembly’s budget resolution.

The resolution outlines the priorities the Assembly Majority would like to see included in the final state budget currently being negotiated with the Senate and the governor.

Jensen said the proposal raises concerns about the overall level of spending and whether the plan adequately addresses both the affordability challenges facing New Yorkers and the long-term sustainability of the state’s health-care system.

“While the budget lays out a broad set of priorities, I believe it misses an opportunity to focus more directly on the cost pressures families are experiencing every day,” Jensen said. “Across our state, households are dealing with rising costs for groceries, housing, health care and energy, and our state budget should be more focused on providing relief and ensuring taxpayer dollars are used as efficiently as possible.”

Jensen also emphasized the need for a stronger focus on long-term solutions to the challenges facing New York’s health-care system.

“Our health-care system is under significant strain across the entire continuum of care—from hospitals and nursing homes to primary care, behavioral health and community-based providers,” Jensen said. “The budget should place greater emphasis on sustainable investments that stabilize providers, strengthen the health-care workforce and ensure patients can access care when and where they need it.”

Jensen noted that many providers continue to face workforce shortages, rising operating costs and growing demand for services, particularly in underserved communities.

“New Yorkers deserve a budget that balances responsible spending with meaningful steps to lower costs, strengthen public safety and invest in the infrastructure and services our communities rely on,” Jensen said.

“As the process continues, I will continue working toward a final budget that promotes fiscal responsibility, supports providers across the health-care continuum and helps make New York a more affordable place to live and work.”