Aug. 25, 2008

State lawmakers' token budget cuts are an insult, Tonello says

Legislative leaders in Albany barely made a dent in the $6.4 billion deficit they've amassed and are instead trying to trick voters into thinking their recent $427 million cuts are substantive, said John Tonello, Democratic candidate for the 53rd State Senate seat.

In reality, the cuts approved during a special legislative session last week were only cuts in increases lawmakers agreed to in April. "Even with these latest cuts, New York's 2008-09 budget still spends $4 billion, or 4.5 percent, more than last year, and remains completely out of control," he said.

Despite budget woes, legislators agreed to preserve pork projects that feed their voter bases, and have allocated money for private institutions not known for being destitute, such as Elmira College and the Corning Classic.

"While both of these are worthy institutions, you're not going to convince me they are as worthy as taxpayers faced with rising costs for everything from health care to food to fuel," Tonello said. "While New Yorkers are making do with less, your representatives in Albany are cutting vital programs and spending to hold onto their jobs in this election year. As senator, I will put people first, not special interests."

Reform is desperately needed to keep New York from falling into bankruptcy, Tonello said. "New Yorkers deserve representatives who are willing to make tough choices and not just apply election-year Band-Aids."

Online: www.sunlightny.com.