The budget was negotiated in an open, public process after hearing the comments, concerns and input of people from across the State and it clearly reflects their priorities for tax relief, as well as investments in education and health care.

By vetoing portions of the budget, and threatening to veto tax cuts for working families, I believe that the Governor�s priorities are wrong and misplaced. He submitted his budget in January. His staff chose to have as little participation in the budget negotiation process as possible. And now the Governor is using his interpretation of the Constitution and court decisions to completely ignore the Legislature�s role in the budget process.

While we remain open to negotiations to address the Governor�s concerns, we will take the appropriate action to restore tax cuts and State investments that the people need and want when the Senate returns after the Easter and Passover observance.