Senator Patrick M. Gallivan, (R-C, Elma) is expressing concern over the New York State Senate’s one-house budget proposal released earlier this week by the Senate Majority Conference. Plans submitted by the Senate and Assembly counter the budget proposal submitted earlier this year by the governor and are part of ongoing negotiations in Albany.

The Senate’s proposal totals $269.8 billion, compared to Governor Hochul’s $262.7 billion plan. It raises taxes on some New Yorkers and increases the statewide corporate tax rate on some businesses.

“I am concerned about the significant increases in proposed taxes and spending, as well as the absence of significant policy proposals to address rising utility bills and make New York more affordable,” said Senator Gallivan. “I urge my colleagues to work together to negotiate a final budget that works for all New Yorkers and begins to solve some of the challenges our residents, businesses, and communities face.”    

The Senate proposal also advances a number of policy actions to facilitate energy mandates outlined in the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act. A recent memo from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) says the mandates could increase gasoline prices by as much as $2.23 per gallon and raise annual utility bills by up to $4,100 for New York residents.  Senator Gallivan and members of the Senate Minority Conference have called on the legislature to repeal the mandates and develop an energy plan that is attainable and more affordable.

The legislature is working under an April 1 deadline to adopt a new state budget.

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