Saratoga Standard

Senator Stec recently issued a statement on the 2024 State Budget, expressing his dissatisfaction with its allocation of funds and overall direction.

Stec stated, “Time and again, I’ve said that the budget is a reflection of the priorities and values of our state government. And it’s clear that this year’s enacted state budget shows that Governor Hochul and Democrat legislative leaders’ priorities are not the needs of our working class families and seniors. The plan they pushed through with next-to-no time for public vetting or input will only make it more difficult for New Yorkers to afford living and working in our state."

He went on to criticize the budget's increase from last year, stating, “This year’s budget comes in at $237 billion, an $8 billion increase from last year. Even at that bloated number, it somehow manages to shortchange our families and business on the issues that matter most."

Stec also expressed concern over what he perceives as insufficient attention to vulnerable seniors, nursing homes, and pension systems. He lamented that while funding for school aid has been restored, it remains flat despite rising costs due to inflation and high taxes.

The senator was particularly critical of the allocation of $2.4 billion towards free health care for illegal immigrants. He claimed this was at the expense of other vital programs and services.

“Much will be and has been said about the housing and ‘Good Cause’ eviction policies included in the budget," Stec continued. "These will not accomplish the necessary goal of expanding affordable housing. They’re an affront to the rights of property owners."

While acknowledging some positive aspects of the budget, Stec concluded by saying it was too expensive overall, contained bad policy decisions, did nothing to improve public safety, prioritized criminals and illegal immigrants over law-abiding taxpayers' interests, and would continue New York's outmigration trend.