ALBANY – NYGOP Chair Ed Cox this evening released the following statement following the latest agreed budget in 14 years:

“If we needed further proof that Kathy Hochul and Democrats in the legislature can’t be trusted to manage New York’s finances, here it is: this budget – negotiated behind closed doors – raises taxes and increases spending. New York’s budget, at over a quarter of a trillion dollars, remains larger than Texas’ and Florida’s combined – and spends 50% more per capita than California.

“Hochul and the Democrats are also raising property taxes on overtaxed homeowners with their Medicaid cost-shift.  This policy gives taxpayers yet another reason to flee the Empire State. Failure to repeal the disastrous bail and discovery laws and the ludicrous ban on gas stoves mark Hochul’s complete capitulation to the radical left of her party.

“Democrats’ crushing taxation and regulatory regime will make New York less safe, less affordable and less free. Our population decline will continue, as businesses and citizens alike seek out friendlier, freer climates.”

###