Saratoga Standard

In a recent statement dated March 14, 2024, Assemblyman Walsh expressed strong opposition to the Assembly Majority's one-house budget proposal, citing concerns over increased spending and tax burdens on New Yorkers.

Walsh acknowledged some positive aspects of the proposal, such as the reversal of cuts to Foundation Aid for schools and the allocation for direct support professionals and CHIPS highway funding. However, he criticized the overall budget plan for its excessive spending, stating, "the wish list of the Assembly Majority lawmakers now stands at a staggering $245.8 billion while seeking to implement $3.5 billion in new taxes over the next two years."

Highlighting the disparity between the Assembly proposal and the executive budget, Walsh emphasized the negative impact of the proposed tax hikes, deeming them unnecessary given the state's revenue performance. He remarked, "Even with an additional $1 billion in consensus revenue, the Assembly Majority can’t resist spending all of it and hiking personal income and business taxes."

Walsh voiced his disapproval of the budget direction, asserting, "More taxes, more spending—and the wrong direction for New York. I voted NO."

The Assemblyman's stance reflects a broader debate on fiscal policy and government spending, with diverging views on the appropriate level of taxation and budget allocation. As discussions continue, the implications of the budget decisions on New York's financial future remain a point of contention.