STATEMENT FROM ASSEMBLY MINORITY LEADER ED RA ON THE DIVISION OF BUDGET’S RELEASE OF THE STATE FINANCIAL PLAN

“Apparently, Democrats had to pass the State Budget so they could find out what was in it. Today’s overdue release of the state financial plan by the Division of Budget revealed a staggering $277 billion final spending number, $9 billion more than Kathy Hochul and Democrats recently claimed. It’s a sobering reminder of the reckless, irresponsible approach Albany takes when developing its annual spending plan.  

The entire 2026 budget process was an exercise in dysfunction and incompetence. Nearly two months late, overloaded with policy and non-fiscal items, passed and signed without seeing the exact dollar amount being committed. It’s unacceptable and it’s why I have sponsored legislation to require a full financial plan be provided before budget bills are advanced.  

Albany Democrats demanded a blank check from New York taxpayers and signed it in the dark. Backwards budgeting might be the Democratic way, but it doesn’t work for the families who are forced to pick up the tab.”