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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
TODAY: 4/9/08
Contact: Suzanne Redmond (315) 255-3045
FINCH STATEMENT ON PASSAGE OF 2008-09 STATE BUDGET
It is unfortunate that the state Legislature was unable to
deliver an effective, on-time budget. The people of New York expect
more given the circumstances surrounding the departure of the former
governor. However, this budget is poorly crafted and leaves upstate New
York hostage to the needs of downstate interests.
It remains to be seen if upstate schools will receive enough
funding to continue to properly educate students, and the billion dollar
upstate initiative is in jeopardy. The promised commitment from both
the previous governor and the present one has been reduced and the
balance is to be paid for on a pay-as-you-go basis. The upstate economy
is desperate and needs help now. This budget falls far too short.
Revenues are down and it appears as though the solution to
this will be to increase taxes and fees on small businesses. In order
to boost the economy, we need to stimulate small business, not further
burden them with increased fees. I am disappointed that the state
Legislature was unable to come to a more equitable and responsible
agreement on the state budget, and I feel that the budget enacted today
will not provide the help that New York's economy needs to continue to
operate efficiently.
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