Sen. Cathy Young on state budget

“The Senate has been negotiating in good faith for results that are important to our people – more jobs and economic opportunity, tax relief, increased school aid so our children have a better future, clean water, and responsible government. It is disappointing that the New York City-controlled Assembly Democrats are holding out on passing the final state budget because of their version of Raise the Age. We agree that juveniles who commit serious crimes should be in separate secure facilities and not adult prisons, and that troubled youth should have counseling to get them on the straight and narrow. However, we never will agree to decriminalizing violent crimes including rape and murder, which is what the Assembly Democrats are pushing. By passing the budget extender today, the Senate has made sure that state government continues operating and the essential needs of New Yorkers and their families continue to be met. We will keep on fighting for the full budget to be passed, and I am hopeful the Assembly will join us in common sense policies that will help every New Yorker have the opportunity to succeed,” said Senator Catharine Young (R,C,I- 57th District).