(Long Island, NY) “The just-passed 2016-17 State budget includes a number of my top priorities,” said Senator Kemp Hannon (R-Nassau). “This includes a landmark, new tax cut for millions of middle-class New Yorkers and businesses, a record high level of education funding and an end to the disastrous GEA (Gap Elimination Adjustment) cuts imposed by Democrats when they controlled the Senate in 2009-10.”
It is the 6th consecutive on-time budget, ensures state government continues to live within its means and builds on the progress that has made New York more affordable for middle-class taxpayers and their families. It includes a $1.5 billion increase for our schools and complete elimination of the GEA this year. Under this budget, state aid for education will total nearly $25 billion — the highest level of funding in state history.
“I believe every student should have access to a first-class education and we’re providing the resources to make it a reality,” said Hannon. “Across my district, State aid to education will increase by an average of 6.5%, and all schools will see a full restoration of the GEA cuts that had been short-changing schools, and which I had opposed.”
The enacted budget will include more than $4.2 billion in middle-class income tax cuts, providing hardworking taxpayers with the relief they need and deserve. This budget also provides nearly $3 billion in property tax relief for homeowners and seniors as part of STAR and Enhanced programs. It also ensures another round of rebate checks will be distributed to homeowners this fall.
“There is more work to be done to keep New York on the right track, but this budget is another step in the right direction,” said Hannon.
