Suffolk Reporter

Assemblyman Joe DeStefano, along with his colleagues, expressed their concerns about the state's budget process at a press conference led by Minority Leader Will Barclay and Ways & Means Committee Ranking Minority Member Ed Ra. DeStefano highlighted the need for comprehensive reforms and greater accountability to ensure a timely and transparent budget that serves the best interests of all New Yorkers.

DeStefano stated, "It is deeply concerning to witness the ongoing and unacceptable delays in our state budget process. Year after year, we face the same issues: a missed deadline, eleventh-hour negotiations, and a lack of transparency. This year is no different."

He emphasized the detrimental effects of the delayed budget on constituents and the state's future, saying, "When our budget is delayed, schools, businesses, nonprofits, and all residents are left in limbo, uncertain of their funding and forced to make difficult decisions without a clear financial picture."

DeStefano criticized the Majority's approach to the budget process, stating, "Their strategy of prioritizing political gains over timely and responsible governance is truly unacceptable. This lack of focus, discipline, and transparency must come to an end. We need a budget process that is transparent, efficient, and, above all, timely."