West NY News

Senator George Borrello has expressed concerns regarding Governor Kathy Hochul's Executive Budget proposal, highlighting what he perceives as an unsustainable increase in state spending. The proposed budget stands at $252 billion, which is $19 billion more than the previous year's proposal.

Borrello criticizes the growth in expenditure, stating it contributes to the high cost of living that drives residents and jobs away from New York. He emphasizes the looming multi-billion-dollar budget gaps and structural fiscal issues that remain unaddressed. "Governor Hochul’s Executive Budget proposal represents a staggering and deeply troubling escalation of spending at a time when New York cannot afford it," he said.

A significant point of contention for Borrello is Medicaid spending, which he describes as outpacing other states without any substantial plan for control. He argues that New York's Medicaid program is excessively expansive and costly, suggesting reforms are necessary to align with other states and reduce waste, fraud, and abuse. "Without reform, we are simply ignoring reality and setting the stage for painful tax increases and cuts in other areas of the budget in the near future," Borrello stated.

The senator also addresses affordability measures included by Governor Hochul such as middle-class tax cuts and rebate checks but warns these may not offset potential financial burdens on taxpayers due to increased taxes or fees required to fund the budget.

Additionally, Borrello points out a $33 billion gap in the Metropolitan Transportation Authority's capital plan that remains unaddressed in the current budget proposal. He anticipates this shortfall will necessitate new taxes or fees impacting New Yorkers.

Borrello calls for fiscal discipline during budget negotiations: "Traditionally, it has been the Governor’s responsibility to serve as the ‘adult in the room’ during budget negotiations." He concludes by urging meaningful reforms over passing financial burdens onto taxpayers: "New Yorkers deserve better."