Saratoga Standard

New York State Senator Dan Stec has voiced strong criticism of Governor Kathy Hochul's recently unveiled executive budget proposal. In a statement, Senator Stec expressed his dissatisfaction with the $252 billion spending plan, describing it as a continuation of high taxes and overspending.

Senator Stec noted that "just one week ago at her State of the State address, Governor Hochul admitted that New York must do more to become more affordable." He argued that instead of taking action to provide immediate relief to middle-class families, the governor presented a budget increasing state spending by $13 billion compared to last year and $84 billion more than before Democrats took full control in 2019.

He highlighted what he perceives as a trend under Democrat leadership: "This chronic, massive increase in spending has been a hallmark of Democrat leadership and this year’s proposal only further positions New York for financial disaster."

Senator Stec criticized the proposed "inflation rebate" checks and gradual implementation of middle-class tax cuts and child tax credits. He stated these measures "merely pay lip service" to addressing overtaxing issues without meeting immediate needs or tackling ongoing affordability crises.

The senator also addressed concerns about border security and fiscal management related to immigration policies: "This could be accomplished by securing our northern border and ending the massive, multi-billion dollar handouts to illegal immigrants."

Further criticisms were directed at the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) funding. According to Senator Stec, "the governor could stop allowing the MTA to siphon tens of billions in taxpayer funds each year," yet he claims no such action is included in the current budget plan.

Reflecting on last year's election results, Senator Stec concluded: "Last year’s election was a referendum on affordability, the migrant crisis and public safety. Apparently, Governor Hochul didn’t understand that message." He called for leadership capable of addressing issues faced by families and small businesses across New York.