Statement on 2011-12 State budget

Albany, N.Y. – The New York State Senate passed the 2011-2012 State budget late last night. State Senator Michael H. Ranzenhofer has issued the following statement:

“The State Senate finished debate on the 2011-2012 State budget before the stroke of midnight on Wednesday, passing the first early budget since 1983.  The passage of an early budget is a historic moment for all New Yorkers; especially since last year’s budget, one of the latest in the State’s history, passed in August, more than five months after the April 1st deadline.

It is also a critical moment for the State because the budget reverses the tax-and-spend mentality of Albany.  The 2011-12 State Budget closes a $10 billion deficit by cutting spending for the first time in over a decade and provides $1 billion in tax relief for businesses and families. It does not impose more taxes on the taxpayer.  It does not rely on one-shot swipes, revenue gimmicks or additional borrowing. 

While it has been a difficult process and many tough decisions had to be made, the 2011-12 budget is a good, first step to move New York towards a more prosperous future.”

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