ALBANY, 04/03/17 – State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I/Ref-Oneonta) today commented on the senate passage of a temporary state budget extension:

“Passage of a temporary budget extension keeps state government operating and ensures essential public services will be maintained as we continue to negotiate several unresolved issues. 

“There is some good news in the budget extension - a significant boost in pay for direct care workers and $2.5 billion for clean water infrastructure.

“I will continue to work to enact a final state budget that controls spending, supports our public schools, helps families afford the high cost of college, eases costs on our small businesses, and expands ridesharing upstate. 

“When it comes to “Raise the Age” I want to strike a balance and make sure youthful offenders are given a second chance, but I will not sacrifice public safety or allow violent criminals to walk free.

“The temporary budget covers state expenses through May 31^st but I am working to reach a final agreement soon so that our school districts can have a level of certainty going into public budget votes.”

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