Lawmakers approve spending measures, now must pay for it
State lawmakers approved a series of spending measures that would restore $600 million in education aid from the $1.4 billion in cuts proposed by Gov. David Paterson and additional spending for mental health and hygiene.
But now the Legislature must face down Paterson’s veto threat and the vote for revenue-raisers that include a temporary suspension of the sales tax for clothing and footwear, expanding the hours of video-lottery terminals and a controversial proposal to allow the state and local governments borrow from the state’s pension fund.
The plan does not include a cap on property taxes or allows grocery stores to sell wine, the latter would bring $150 million in revenue.
Paterson’s office estimates the Legislature’s budget has a $400 million hole and must take into account the possible withholding of $1 billion in Medicaid funding.
If Paterson makes good on his veto threat, all of the spending passed would be moot. That includes the education aid, new spending and $193 million in member items, also known as pork.
Republican lawmakers also blasted the budget process, calling it irresponsible. Here is Sen. Stephen Saland, R-Poughkeepsie and Sen. Michael Nozzolio, R-Fayette, Seneca County airing their concerns.
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How long are we going to let these incompetent bozos in the Assembly and Senate get away with spending billions that they know we don’t have? If they won’t cut, it can only mean higher taxes. In addition, they blatantly refuse caps on property and school tax increases. We are lambs being led to the slaughter. We need a few rams to put their horns where the sun don’t shine. The public is wising up. November will be a watershed locally and nationally.