Robert Megna, a prominent figure in New York state government, has been appointed as Gov. Kathy Hochul’s budget director, her office announced on Monday. This marks Megna’s third term serving as the top official at the state Division of Budget, having previously held the position under Gov. David Paterson and Gov. Andrew Cuomo.
Megna, who currently serves as the president of the Rockefeller Institute of Government and senior advisor to the chancellor of the State University of New York, will replace Robert Mujica, a holdover from Cuomo’s administration who recently left to become a financial official for Puerto Rico.
Hochul stated that Megna’s appointment would be short-term, and that he would assist with the search for a long-term replacement before returning to his current position. This move comes just one month before the state budget is expected to pass on April 1, making Megna’s experience and expertise a valuable asset to the administration.
“Bob brings a wealth of experience and knowledge built over his multi-decade career in New York State government, and I am grateful for his commitment to public service and his leadership during this crucial time,” Gov. Hochul said in a statement. “It is imperative that we continue to make New York safer, more affordable and more livable, and I know Bob’s expertise will help us move these critical priorities forward.”
In addition to serving as budget director, Megna has also held the positions of commissioner of the Department of Taxation and Finance and executive director of the New York State Thruway Authority. Hochul expressed her appreciation for the work of Acting Budget Director Sandra Beattie and the entire team at the Division of the Budget.
Megna’s appointment comes as Hochul works to assemble her team and set her agenda following her ascension to the governorship in August 2021 after Andrew Cuomo’s resignation.
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