Saratoga Standard

The federal government has announced a freeze on funding, requiring agencies to review and assess financial assistance programs. This measure is aimed at ensuring fiscal accountability, according to statements made by Simpson.

"The federal funding freeze requiring agencies to review and assess financial assistance programs is one of many steps toward ensuring fiscal accountability," Simpson stated. He compared this initiative to how families manage their household budgets and small businesses operate successfully with oversight of spending. He emphasized the importance of such audits, likening it to the New York State Comptroller’s Office's routine audits of local municipalities to ensure responsible resource use under a sustainable fiscal plan.

Simpson noted that this measure introduces an unprecedented level of accountability at the federal level. "This measure introduces a level of accountability at the federal level that has not been seen before," he said.

Simpson expressed hope that the implications of this order will be considered promptly and positively. "As we all pause to consider the implications of this order on day one, I am hopeful this correction will be done in a timely manner," he remarked. He also expressed confidence in the administration's ability to recognize the value that many federal programs bring to communities, particularly in the North Country. "I am confident the administration will see the value many federal programs have on our communities and the exceptional return they deliver for the North Country on a regular basis," Simpson concluded.