Legislative Column from Assemblyman Joe Errigo

BUDGET REFORMS PASS, BUT MORE NEEDS TO DONE

     This week, my Assembly Republican colleagues and I voted for reform legislation designed to make the budget process more timely, transparent and accountable, which we have advocated and championed for many years.   

     While the legislation was a step in the right direction, it fell short of Governor Spitzer’s promise to end the “three men in a room” politics of Albany. To combat this practice, I supported additional reform measures included in an amendment to the bill.  The amendment called for meaningful minority participation, of both houses, in the budget process and in all negotiations. Unfortunately, the amendment was defeated 98-45 with all but four Democrats voting against it. 

     While the legislation promotes change the process under which it was created stifles progress.  The current system needs to be replaced by a process that is more transparent, accountable and a truly democratic process that gives rank-and-file members of both parties in both Houses of the legislature a legitimate voice. 

     Assembly Republicans and Senate Democrats represent millions of New Yorkers and they deserve equal representation.  
By reforming the legislative process, we will ensure that all New Yorkers have a voice in Albany.  

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