This was the latest budget adopted in 16 years. It required 15 budget extenders to keep government operating. After all the delays, our families, seniors, and local businesses had every right to expect better. This budget kicks too many problems down the road instead of addressing them head-on. It does not seriously address growing concerns about electric capacity, grid reliability, or the long-term affordability of energy. And while this budget promotes temporary gimmicks like the so-called POWER rebates, it does little to address the underlying policies and mandates that continue driving up utility costs and taxes. The budget also fails to adequately support rural healthcare providers and emergency services. In fact, funding intended to support important public protection services, including volunteer fire companies and EMS providers, was reduced by millions of dollars. And if that’s not bad enough, a significant portion of the cell phone surcharge intended to support fire and EMS is being swept into the general fund. New Yorkers deserved more than temporary fixes and gimmicks. That’s why I will continue fighting for policies that lower costs, strengthen public safety, and support the people and communities that make Upstate New York strong.