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Senator Bruno addresses Albany reporters at the Capitol Building. |
Provides $172 million in Fiscal Relief to Local Governments
Monday, December 16, 2002
The New York State Senate will act tomorrow on legislation that provides for nearly $172 million in fiscal relief to local governments across New York State. The measure eliminates the requirement that counties repay state Medicaid funds previously advanced to them, freeing up funds as they prepare their budgets for the upcoming year.
"The single largest component of county budgets is Medicaid spending," said Senate Majority Leader Joseph L. Bruno. "This measure will help local governments address fiscal challenges caused by increased Medicaid spending. I commend the Governor for introducing this legislation as we continue to search for ways to help local governments address their difficult fiscal situations.
"With so many local governments facing tough budgets, proposing tax increases, service cut backs and layoffs, it�s a shame that Speaker Silver refuses to bring this bill to a vote in the Assembly," Senator Bruno said. "If enacted this bill would provide property tax relief, including $49 million in relief for the City of New York, yet the Speaker is leaving municipalities and taxpayers out to dry."
"Keeping taxes stabilized for local taxpayers is a top priority," said State Senator Mary Lou Rath (R-C, Amherst), chair of the Senate Local Government Committee. "This measure will greatly assist municipalities in their efforts to keep a lid on property taxes."
The bill, which was submitted by Governor Pataki, eliminates the requirement that counties repay the State a total of nearly $172 million that was previously advanced to counties over the past several years. Since 1992, the State advanced funds to assist counties in addressing the cash flow impact on local governments associated with the conversion of certain mental health services to Medicaid, specifically rehabilitation services provided to residents of certified community residences.
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