Assemblyman Blankenbush responds to Hochul’s FY 2025 Budget Address

ALBANY, NY- Governor Kathy Hochul delivered the Fiscal Year 2025 State Budget Address this week, featuring investments she says will make New York more affordable, more livable and safer.

All funds spending is $233 billion, growing 4.5 percent. “This budget makes it clear that fiscal discipline can co-exist with progressive, people-driven policies,” Governor Hochul said.

“I am committed to fight the right fights on behalf of New Yorkers, and to pursue the common good with common sense – by seeking common ground.”

Highlights of the proposed budget include improving public safety, transforming mental health care and more record–breaking investments towards education.

With that said, North Country lawmakers have been reacting to the proposed budget, including Assemblyman Ken Blankenbush. “This is a $233-billion-dollar piece of art taxpayers cannot afford,” he said.

“Since becoming governor, Gov. Hochul has made history running up spending for nonsensical, hyper partisan policies and shoving New York state onto the cusp of a fiscal ledge,” Blankenbush went on.

In the proposed budget, Governor Hochul prioritized bolstering the State’s reserves, which currently sit at just over 15 percent of operating costs.

Under her leadership, the Governor’s office says New York State has maintained a bond rating of AA+, reducing borrowing costs.

Assemblyman Blankenbush image.