Top of mind for me after Governor Hochul’s State of the State speech last this week is New York’s ongoing affordability crisis, an issue I remain laser-focused on. I’m interested in reviewing the details of her proposals when they are released next week as part of the executive budget.
Expenses related to raising a family in New York continue to rise, and I was glad to hear plans to ensure New York finally makes good on its promise to make pre-K truly universal. It’s critical, however, that this doesn’t mean expanding New York City programs while families in every other school district in New York continue to fight for a few additional seats every year. It’s time for every kid to have a seat in a quality pre-k program, no matter their zip code.
Reinforcing our gains in public safety is also critical. I’ll be supporting proposals to keep digital predators from children, as well as new investments in key law enforcement tools like crime labs. Keeping our communities safe is a priority for every one of us.
This week marks the start of annual budget negotiations. This year it feels especially important to ensure Orange County gets the support and resources it needs, and I’ll be fighting hard to make that happen.
