|
ALBANY-- New Yorkers for Fiscal Fairness, a coalition of community advocates, human services organizations, labor unions and religious organizations has launched a statewide campaign in response to what they say is Governor Pataki's “reckless state budget proposal”.
They said their campaign will expose flaws in Governor Pataki's proposal, which promises $16 billion in tax cuts and loopholes which they say will most benefit big corporations and the rich, at the expense of average New Yorkers. The impact on health care funding, public education and community services will devastate New York's economy for years to come, they say. The Governor's proposed budget leaves the state with a $2 billion deficit next year and a $4 billion deficit the year after that, according to the group.
They also say that most important to note is that the Governor's budget proposal will leave New York with massive deficits long after he is out of office.
New Yorkers for Fiscal Fairness was created 10 years ago to develop and implement strategies pertaining to the New York State Budget. The coalition's goal has been and continues to be to ensure a fair and equitable state budget that protects the interests of all New Yorkers.
Elie Ward, spokesperson for New Yorkers for Fiscal Fairness stated, "The public needs to understand that the Governor's proposal will force devastating cuts in health care funding, public education and community services. Worst of all, it will put more pressure on people's property taxes.
"Unfortunately, the Governor is proposing to implement $16 billion in reckless tax cuts over the next five years, with most of the benefit going to big corporations and the wealthy. Of course, Governor Pataki won't be around when the balloon bursts as a result of these back loaded cuts. New Yorkers are going to be left picking up the pieces."
The opening salvo in this campaign is a statewide radio campaign. The campaign includes a grassroots effort urging the general public to contact lawmakers. 2-28-06
© 2005 North
Country Gazette
|
