“Once again, upstate looks to have drawn the short end of the stick and will have to fight for the funding we deserve. I am disappointed to see the Assembly has ignored our call for unfunded mandate relief. New York is already one of the highest taxed states in the nation, and unfunded mandates are just cowardly ways for the state to take more from us.

“I am disappointed that Consolidated Local State & Highway Program (CHIPS) has not been allocated any increase in funding. After a wonderful showing last week at the Capitol, I would have expected the Assembly Majority to realize how important proper infrastructure funding is to our upstate communities. Unfortunately, the main concern of our Assembly Majority remains the subways and bridges of New York City.

“The Assembly Majority only allocated only $14 million in local agricultural assistance, $5 million less than what was proposed in the governor’s Executive Budget. It’s insulting and highlights what the Assembly Majority thinks about one of our state’s most important industries. I don’t understand how any upstate Assembly member could be in favor of this proposal when it so blatantly disrespects the hardworking men and women of our farm and agriculture communities.

“While there are some positives to take from this proposed budget, particularly the restoration of the Gap Elimination Adjustment Education cuts, an overall sense of division remains. I look forward to debating and negotiating with my colleagues and look forward to bringing home our district’s fair share.”