“The past two years have demonstrated the importance of providing every New Yorker with the tools they need to thrive. I’ve worked with my Assembly colleagues to deliver a budget proposal that prioritizes our communities, bolsters our educational institutions and improves our state economy.

“Veterans have made significant sacrifices to protect our country and deserve our support when they return home. The Assembly’s budget proposal establishes the first State Veterans’ Cemetery. Veterans who bravely served this country deserve a dignified resting place. I was proud to support a budget proposal that ensures that the creation of such a resting place is a priority for New York State.

“The proposal also increases state funding for Centers for Advanced Technology, including a $5.2 million increase to the program overall. This increase means each participating institution, including SUNY Poly's Center for Advanced Technology in Nanomaterials and Nanoelectronics (CATN2) in Utica, would receive $1.25 million. This program will foster collaboration between private industries and universities in developing and applying new technologies. It will become an important tool for scientific innovation, encouraging economic activity and building a highly trained workforce for the jobs of tomorrow.

“Libraries are critical community hubs that offer invaluable resources to residents of all ages. I’ve worked to provide a total of $106.1 million in funding for local libraries, which is an increase of $10 million over the executive plan and $12 million over last year’s budget. Our budget plan also restores $20 million for Library Construction Aid, bringing total funding to $34 million.

“Times have been tough for everyone, and I’m doing everything I can to improve the lives of Mohawk Valley families. As we quickly approach our April 1 budget deadline, I look forward to finalizing these measures and producing a final state budget that gives our communities the support they need.”