“The governor presented his agenda for New York today. As usual, his agenda includes some proposals I can support, others that need more clarity, and some I just cannot support.

“First, I am encouraged the governor has finally agreed to eliminate the Gap Elimination Adjustment (GEA) that cut funding from our local schools. It’s long overdue that we finally restore these funds so our school districts will have the resources necessary to provide our children with the education they deserve.

“I am pleased the governor has finally submitted a five-year road and bridge plan. However, I am concerned his proposal to fund roads and bridges is $4 billion less than his proposal for the MTA. That’s not parity. In addition, I am equally concerned that his entire infrastructure plan fails to increase funding for municipalities to fix their local roads, bridges and culverts through the CHIPs program. This is a critically important program that must be increased.

“Although the governor recognizes the need to reduce the tax burden on small businesses, unfortunately, his tax relief plan is not nearly broad, bold or aggressive enough to encourage the private sector investment needed to foster economic development and job creation. This lack of tax relief, coupled with the governor’s $15 per hour minimum wage proposal, will have a very negative impact on our small businesses, farmers, not-for-profit agencies, local governments and school districts. This proposal will hurt the very people he is trying to help as this will lead to job losses and business closures.

“In regard to ethics reform, I wholeheartedly agree with the governor that we need to strip the pensions from public officials who use their position to violate the public trust. They do not deserve a taxpayer-funded pension. However, I am adamantly opposed to the governor’s proposal to create a taxpayer-funded campaign system that estimates show will cost taxpayers over $200 million a year. This is a misplaced priority that will not solve this problem.

“This is just a snapshot of some of the many issues we will be dealing with during budget negotiations. This is just the beginning of the process, and I look forward to working with the governor and my legislative colleagues to adopt a budget that is fair and equitable for all New Yorkers.”