May 31

May 31 Utica Representatives React to New York State Budget Passage By Jordan Conestabile

New York State recently finalized the 2025–2026 budget. Reactions by local lawmakers State Senator Joseph Griffo (53rd District) and Assemblymember Marianne Buttenschon (District 119) highlighted disconnect between Albany’s fiscal choices and the realities faced by everyday New Yorkers. While the budget includes positive investments, such as funding for libraries, infrastructure, and free school meals, they believe it falls short on long-term relief, transparency, and regional fairness.

Senator Griffo criticized the $11 billion increase in state spending, arguing that it relies on short-term fixes rather than sustainable solutions. “Despite the record $11 billion increase in spending, struggling New Yorkers will see little relief in their day-to-day lives,” Griffo said. “One-time payments and rising costs leave many residents feeling more burdened than supported.”

Griffo also took issue with the opaque and rushed budget process, calling for greater transparency and public engagement. “This year’s state budget, the latest in 15 years to be negotiated behind closed doors with no transparency or public scrutiny, and then passed through a flawed process which is a prime example of the dangers of one-party control and the absence of checks and balances in Albany,” Griffo said.

Assemblymember Buttenschon opposed the practice of embedding major policy changes within the budget bills, which forces lawmakers to either approve or reject the entire package. “While some parts of this budget move us forward, I could not support every bill,” Buttenschon stated. “Public safety, education, healthcare, and small business development are non-negotiable priorities for me.”

Meanwhile, Buttenschon expressed concern over the state’s handling of its correctional system. “While I’m proud to support investments that strengthen our communities, this budget fails to address the growing crisis in the New York State Correctional System,” she said. “We cannot continue to close prisons without accountability.”

Jordan Conestabile is a graduate student at the Rockefeller College of Public Affairs and Public Policy; University of Albany.