“This weekend, I voted in favor of the final two bills of this year’s state budget, which, despite their flaws, contain several provisions that I feel reflect the best interests of New York State and its residents. While the dysfunctional manner in which my first budget negotiation unfolded is certainly a cause for concern, I view the inclusion of several important measures, such as the re-privatization of NYRA, college affordability, ride-sharing, workers’ compensation reform and child and dependent tax credits, to be major victories, not only for my district, but for the entire Empire State. Moving forward, I pledge to continue fighting for the priorities of my constituents, and will do everything in my power to amend this negotiation process, ensuring the funding of crucially-important programs is unimpeded by a flawed process and co-mingling of policy and budgetary interests.”