With help from Shawn Ness
Critics Slam Democrats for “Addiction” to Spending in State Budget Proposals
As the deadline for finalizing the state budget approaches, both houses of the state Legislature have approved their one-house budget proposals, setting the stage for negotiations with Gov. Kathy Hochul. However, Republicans have raised concerns over the hefty price tag attached to the budget plans, accusing Democrats of being “addicted to spending.”
Republican lawmakers pointed out that the Assembly and Senate budget plans are inching towards $246 billion, a significant increase from the $233 billion proposed by Gov. Hochul in January. This increase is fueled by adjustments in revenue projections and anticipated federal Medicaid funds, alongside proposed tax hikes on high-earning individuals and corporations.
According to Republicans, the total spending would skyrocket by $75 billion since Democrats took control of the state in 2019, surpassing the annual budgets of 37 states. Assemblymember Ed Ra emphasized the state’s poor tax climate and expressed concerns over the sustainability of the proposed “temporary” tax increases.
In response, Democrats defended their budget proposals, highlighting investments in critical areas such as clean energy, education, and affordable housing. Senate Finance Chair Liz Krueger praised the budget as the best she has seen in her legislative career, emphasizing the importance of taxing the wealthy to ensure a balanced budget without resorting to excessive borrowing.
Support for Local Journalism Gains Traction in Budget Discussions
The Empire State Local News Coalition lauded the inclusion of the “Local Journalism Sustainability Act” in the one-house budgets released by the Senate and Assembly. Sponsored by state Sen. Brad Hoylman-Sigal and Assemblymember Carrie Woerner, the bill aims to provide tax credits to local news outlets employing local journalists.
The coalition’s advocacy for supporting local journalism has gained momentum, with over 150 New York local news outlets rallying for government assistance. The bill proposes a 50 percent tax credit on the first $50,000 of each employee’s salary, capped at $200,000 per outlet, to incentivize the hiring of journalists and bolster independent local news coverage.
Amid a crisis in the news industry marked by numerous newspaper closures, supporters believe that the Local Journalism Sustainability Act could revitalize local news coverage and uphold democracy by ensuring access to quality, independent reporting.
City’s Department of Investigation Faces Funding Challenges Amid Probes
The New York City Department of Investigation announced plans to investigate the NYPD’s use of surveillance technology, parking placards abuse, and public-housing water contamination. However, the department highlighted financial constraints due to savings initiatives, impacting its ability to fill essential investigative positions.
Commissioner Jocelyn Strauber emphasized the need for additional funding to hire 20 vacant positions crucial for conducting investigations and expanding proactive initiatives. Despite facing challenges in meeting reduction targets, the department aims to enhance its investigative capabilities to address pressing issues affecting the city.
In a separate incident, Council Member Gale Brewer intervened to shut down an illegal pot shop selling untaxed cigarettes, underscoring the challenges in enforcing marijuana control laws. Brewer highlighted the lack of resources at the state level to tackle illicit cannabis operations, calling for legislative support to strengthen enforcement measures.
Conclusion
As the state Legislature navigates budget negotiations with Gov. Hochul, the divide between Democrats and Republicans over spending priorities remains evident. While Republicans criticize Democrats for their increasing reliance on tax hikes to fund ambitious budget proposals, Democrats defend their investments in critical areas as necessary for the state’s progress and well-being.
Meanwhile, initiatives like the Local Journalism Sustainability Act signal a growing recognition of the importance of supporting local news outlets in safeguarding democracy and fostering community ties. As funding challenges impact crucial investigations by the Department of Investigation, the need for adequate resources to address pressing issues facing the city becomes increasingly apparent.
With budget discussions ongoing and the deadline looming, the final budget agreement will likely reflect a delicate balance between competing priorities and the need for fiscal responsibility in charting New York’s path forward.
