As Governor Hochul and legislative leaders celebrate passage of the new state budget, critics warn that the deal marks another chapter in what they call a reckless and unsustainable pattern of government spending.
At roughly $254 billion, the budget increases spending by nearly $15 billion over last year. But opponents argue the true cost is closer to $260 billion, citing a separate $6 billion transfer from state reserve funds to cover unemployment insurance debt—a move they say shifts long-term burdens onto taxpayers without counting as new spending.
Since 2018, total state spending has increased by nearly $90 billion under one-party control, critics say, accusing Democratic leaders of crafting fiscal plans behind closed doors and bypassing transparency. The use of “messages of necessity,” which allow for rushed votes on final legislation, has drawn particular scrutiny for minimizing public input and lawmaker review.
“Contrary to their rhetoric about affordability, the governor and Legislature are compounding the already excessive burden on the state’s taxpayers and economy and worsening the long-term decline of the Empire State,” said the Empire Center, a nonpartisan watchdog group.
The column raises alarm over what it calls a “broken budget adoption process” and points to ongoing challenges in health care, public safety, and infrastructure that remain unaddressed. It criticizes the budget for expanding government handouts while offering no meaningful tax or mandate relief for residents and businesses.
Opponents warn the new plan will deepen short- and long-term deficits, increase borrowing, and force future tax hikes or fee increases. They call for reforms to restore checks and balances, allow for open debate, and stop what they view as runaway spending that jeopardizes the state’s economic future.
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