Governor Andrew Cuomo gave his State of the State Address yesterday. The governor outlined reforms and proposed new infrastructure improvements during his address. While the budget specifics will be released in the next few weeks, the governor outlined some of his plans to spend $145 billion in the coming fiscal year. $100 Billion in the budget would be used towards capital projects across the state. Also in his address, Cuomo proposed a tax break for small businesses, more ethics reforms, and an increase of $1 Billion in state aid to school districts.
Local lawmakers had an immediate reaction to the Governor’s address. Senator Fred Akshar said, “I’m very disappointed he didn’t address the heroin and opioid epidemic that’s plaguing communities throughout this state.”
Assemblyman Gary Finch also noted his disappointment that the governor did not address the drug epidemic. Additionally, Assemblyman Finch voiced his concerns about the Governor failing to present an in-depth plan for public education reform.
