Saratoga Standard

Assemblyman Matt Simpson from Lake George has raised concerns over the $256.5 billion one-house budget proposal, describing it as part of Albany's ongoing approach of high taxation and spending that fails to tackle New York’s affordability issues. Despite his criticism, Simpson acknowledges that the budget includes provisions that will benefit residents in the North Country, such as increased funding for clean water infrastructure, child care, education, and relief for businesses affected by unemployment insurance debt.

Simpson stated, “This budget is yet another example of Albany politicians saying one thing and doing another. They claim to care about affordability, yet they continue to grow government at the expense of hard-working taxpayers. We see tax breaks worth millions for downstate Hollywood projects while the cost of electrification will result in roughly $37 spikes this summer on average for struggling families.” He emphasized, “The people of the North Country don’t need more reckless spending. We need meaningful tax relief, investments in job creation, and policies that make it easier, not harder, to live and work here.”

Despite his objections to the overall budget, Simpson highlighted victories for his district, noting the wins in clean water infrastructure, universal school meals, expanded child care tax credits, and measures to address the state’s unemployment insurance debt. He remarked, “These victories are a testament to the work we’ve done to ensure North Country residents get their fair share, but they don’t make up for the overall reckless spending that continues to drive people out of our state.” Simpson expressed his commitment to cutting taxes, controlling spending, and prioritizing working families, saying, “That is what I will continue fighting for.”