REPORT: Governor Hochul vetoes bill designed to increase transparency in state spending
ALBANY, NY- Officials are expressing their disappointment over a bill, which was recently vetoed by Governor Kathy Hochul.
The bill, which was passed unanimously in the State Assembly and Senate, would have required more public disclosure of emergency contacts and spending that bypass normal oversight.
On the other hand, the Governor’s Office says the bill would hinder New York’s ability to deliver services to at-risk New Yorkers in emergency scenarios.
"It is important in time of an emergency that there is flexibility for the Executive to focus on the ongoing emergency and move quickly in the best interest of the public. The requirements in this bill would hamper that ability," Hochul said in a memo released in concert with her veto.
In response, North Country Assemblyman Ken Blankenbush (R, C – Black River) says New Yorkers deserve to know where their tax dollars are being spent. “I will continue to work across the aisle to push for important reform and ensure taxpayers know where their money is being spent,” the Assemblyman said. (See full statement below):
“I am deeply disappointed in the governor’s decision to veto such a vital piece of legislation. New Yorkers deserve to know where their tax dollars are being spent, and without public disclosure, taxpayers can’t be sure their dollars are being spent wisely. I will continue to work across the aisle to push for important reform and ensure taxpayers know where their money is being spent. The only way the people can have faith in their government is through full transparency.”
Furthermore, the State Comptroller, Thomas P. DiNapoli, is expressing disappointment with the Governor’s veto. “Without public disclosure of how taxpayer money is being used, it raises questions about whether the public is getting the best value for its money,” he said. See full statement below):
“I am very disappointed the Governor vetoed our bill requiring more transparency and accountability for billions in emergency contracts and those that bypass routine oversight. Without public disclosure of how taxpayer money is being used, it raises questions about whether the public is getting the best value for its money. This legislation had unanimous support in both the Assembly and the Senate. We’ll work with our legislative sponsors, Senator Cooney and Assemblywoman Solages, to keep pushing for it and keep taxpayers informed about where their money is going. Transparent government is accountable government.”
With the New Year on the horizon, the 2025 Legislative Session will be underway in a matter of weeks.
Image via the office of New York Governor Kathy Hochul.
