Issues: Federal Programs

Budget Comes Early, Controls Spending and Holds The Line On Taxes

Senator Patrick M. Gallivan hailed the 2012 state budget today as lawmakers approved the spending plan ahead of the April 1st deadline, marking the second consecutive year New York State will enact an on-time budget.

“Passing a second on-time budget in as many years is indicative of the larger progress we’ve seen lately in Albany. Just as late budgets were once a symbol of dysfunction, on-time budgets are symbolic of continued progress,” the Senator said. “Even more important than passing an on-time budget, is that we passed a fiscally responsible budget that respects New York’s taxpayers and keeps the State moving forward.”

Gallivan: “Senate Plan Cuts Taxes, Reforms Medicaid, Protects Seniors and Schools.”

The New York State Senate voted to approve its 2012-13 Senate Budget resolution, continuing its focus on state spending, job creation, and structural reform to government.

The Senate budget, at just under $132.5 billion, keeps the total state spending increase below two percent, and spends less than the Executive Budget. The budget closes a $2 billion budget deficit and builds on last year’s successes in putting the state’s fiscal house in order.

News From New York StateSenator Shirley L.

Senator Bill Larkin Concerned Federal Matching Funds in Jeopardy

The New York State Senate this week passed legislation (Senate bill S.5921) sponsored by Senator Mark Grisanti which would preserve New York’s federal matching funds for two key conservation programs geared for fish and wildlife restoration.  It will bar the transfer of state funds from any account contingent upon a matching requirement for the receipt of federal revenues. 

 TSA ‘Passenger Advocate’ at Airports Will Assist Travelers With Concerns Over Inappropriate Screening Processes, Immediately and On-Site

Schumer, Gianaris Request Investigation of Security Checkpoint Procedures at Kennedy Airport Following Recent Cases of Alleged Inappropriate Searching of Three Elderly Women

Schumer, Gianaris: Enhanced Screening Programs at Airports are Making the Skies Safer, But We Must Strike the Right Balance Between Security and Protecting Vulnerable Passengers

Senate Investment Will Help Ease Housing Crunch from Returning Troops

ONEONTA, 10/17/11 – State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I – Oneonta) today announced he is co-sponsoring legislation (S.5889-B) that will reform the cost administration of New York State’s Medicaid system through a phased-in state takeover - gradually eliminating the local share traditionally paid by county governments and funded by property taxes.

“After working for years to convert the masses in Albany, a property tax cap is finally in place,” said Senator Seward.  “The cap is a major milestone but it needs to be linked to substantial mandate relief for local governments – a step we can take by exorcising the biggest mandate demon – Medicaid.”