In a scenario that has played out all too often in Albany in recent years, the governor and the legislature have once again missed the April 1 deadline to adopt a new state budget, one of the most fundamental responsibilities of state leaders. As I write this column, negotiators for the Senate, the Assembly and Governor Hochul remain at odds over several key issues, including proposed changes in New York’s climate laws. This impasse also creates uncertainty for school districts and local governments trying to finalize their own budgets and delays action on other important legislative initiatives. 

Fortunately, there has been no direct impact on the operation of state agencies and the delivery of vital services. The legislature has approved a series of budget extenders to allow the state to pay vendors and employees, and to keep State Police, DOT, and other departments functioning. Hospitals, parks and government buildings remain open to the public. While members of the Senate and Assembly will not be paid until a new budget is adopted, state operations will continue as usual. 

As negotiations continue, I remain concerned about proposed increases in taxes and spending. The governor’s $260 billion plan is $6 billion more than last year. The Senate’s proposal totals almost $270 billion. Under these proposals, state spending would increase by 54% since 2019. New York taxpayers cannot afford these unsustainable increases.

One of the issues holding up this year’s budget is the governor’s plan to delay so-called green energy mandates under the state’s Climate Leadership and Community Protect Act (CLCPA). Members of the legislature majority want to maintain the strict rules and deadlines, despite the projected cost to residents. Earlier this year the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) warned the mandates would raise annual utility bills by up to $4,100 for New York ratepayers.   

Like you, I agree that we must protect our environment for our children and grandchildren, but the energy goals and mandates included in the CLCPA are unrealistic and unaffordable. I voted against the plan and co-sponsor legislation that would repeal the All-Electric Buildings Act and the electric vehicle mandate. Instead of imposing bans and other costly restrictions, we need to develop an energy plan that is realistic and attainable. 

Local school districts are also anxiously awaiting a new state budget. They need to know how much state funding they are going to get, which will have a direct impact on the budgets they present to voters next month. It is not fair to make them wait, or worse yet guess on state aid. The budget impasse also creates a logjam in Albany. Ongoing negotiations delay debate and action on other important legislative proposals that must be acted on before the end of the legislative session in June.

I will continue to urge my colleagues to come to an agreement on a budget that New Yorkers can afford and that helps us meet the challenges we face…and to do it as soon as possible.