6/28/10: Leaders Must Scrap Their Disastrous Budget Proposals

"The fact that members of the Legislature are even considering voting on budget proposals that include increased state spending and additional taxes and fees is a demonstration of their blatant disregard for New York's taxpayers. For months, the people of this state have been pleading for a budget that is smart and affordable, not one that is destructive, ill-conceived and reckless. The budget is already several months past due - our elected leaders in the Senate and Assembly shouldn't slap a rush sticker on it simply to meet the governor's deadline.

Furthermore, the Legislature should shun any traditional eleventh-hour attempts to pass bad bills like the Farm Labor Bill and Service Worker Prevailing Wage Bill. These measures, and others like them, would be devastating for New York's upstate communities that continue to deal with the negligent policy decisions of their elected officials.

In light of the critical budget negotiations in Albany, members and supporters of Unshackle Upstate will be calling their elected officials today to send their message: vote NO on any budget proposal that increases spending, taxes, fees and assessments. Moreover, if upstate members of the Senate and Assembly are truly interested in continuing to serve their constituents, they should seriously consider the consequences of their actions. As part of our ongoing Judgment Day campaign, we will develop legislative scorecards informing the public as to how their elected officials voted on the budget. Judgment Day is only 127 days away."