State Senator John J. Bonacic (R/I/C - Mount Hope) voted in favor of legislation to strengthen budget reforms to further increase accountability and openness in the State budget making process.
"New Yorkers have a right to know how their tax dollars are being spent," stated Senator Bonacic. "We all should be confident that our elected officials are fiscally responsible, as well as open and honest with hardworking New Yorkers."
The bills approved today include the following:
Senate bill 2 requires that every dollar spent by the Governor, Legislature, Judiciary, State agencies, and public authorities is accounted for and clearly lined out for public review.
Senate bill 2 would also eliminate the need for the Public Authority Control bill (PACB)to approve capital projects already authorized in the budget.
Senate bill 3 will give second passage to a constitutional amendment that addresses concerns raise by Court of Appeals decisions, regarding the power and authority of the Governor and Legislature in the budget process.
Senate bill 3 also requires the Legislature to explain the fiscal impact of any additions to the Governor’s budget proposal and identify the funding to pay for them.
"Last week’s budget reform legislation was a step in the right direction. These measures continue those steps toward comprehensive and more effective reform that New Yorkers want and deserve. I was pleased to vote in favor of these bills and I am hopeful that the Assembly takes immediate action to approve reform, as well," concluded Senator Bonacic.
