Nothern New York lawmakers react to delayed passage of state budget [Video]

Following weeks of negotiations, New York State’s budget for the 2025 fiscal year has finally been passed, however, local state representatives have polarizing feelings towards the spending plan and are upset about the delayed passage.Assemblyman Billy Jones, a Democrat representing District 115, emphasized the importance of timely budgeting: “It’s our responsibility to have a budget by April 1st. We need to continue to strive for that and do that.”His Republican counterpart, Assemblyman Matt Simpson from District 114, echoed similar sentiments, stating, “New Yorkers are relying on us to pass on April 1st, and we should be passing it on April 1st.”The $237 billion spending agreement includes significant allocations, notably a $36 billion investment in total school aid for the next school year. Gov. Kathy Hochul’s office hailed it as the largest level of school funding in state history, emphasizing every New York State student’s right to a high-quality education.Additionally, the …