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[Para ver la versión en español visite aquí).
Dear Neighbors,
As Winter bids adieu, we eagerly anticipate April and its radiant skies, embracing the arrival of spring after weathering recent storms. This month holds diverse significance, inviting us to anticipate nature's revival and embrace the changing seasons. April begins with a playful nod to humor on April Fools’ Day, while also marking Earth Month, Autism Awareness Month, and Sexual Assault Awareness Month, urging us to raise our voices for change. Additionally, with Eid al-Fitr and Passover underway, we're reminded to advocate for peace and spread kindness and empathy spiritually.
This month prompts us to show compassion, foster understanding, and cherish moments with loved ones while staying attuned to the world around us.
As we flip the calendar, there's an overdue task on our hands: the New York State budget.
I was eagerly anticipating sharing the details and highlights with you, as promised in my previous e-update, regarding the final state budget. However, despite intense negotiations in the past few days, the state legislature and governor missed the April 1st deadline to pass the budget.
In the midst of a diverse array of discussions echoing in the room, a handful of pivotal issues seize the lion's share of attention. Particularly, the inclusion of the original "good cause" eviction legislation in a housing deal, rather than a watered-down version making stark concessions to the real estate industry, acts as a significant barrier in the ongoing negotiations over the state budget. Nevertheless, as your devoted state senator, I am committed to navigating through these challenges in the days ahead. My dedication is fueled by our shared vision of crafting a budget that sparks transformative change for all New Yorkers.
My journey involves addressing key priorities, including pension reform (Tier 6), advocating for Good Cause Eviction, and supporting our high-need school districts while rejecting Executive changes to Foundation Aid. We aim to advance a Progressive Tax Bill, oppose cuts to the Environmental Protection Fund, and advocate for the inclusion of the NY Heat ACT and Climate Superfund Act. Additionally, we seek to enhance the accessibility of essential services, such as healthcare, mental health support, reproductive and maternal health, and social welfare. Furthermore, advocating for improved minimum wage standards for service workers and equitable compensation for home care providers is a crucial aspect of our mission. All of these are encapsulated in the Senate’s Democrat Majority proposed budget—dubbed the Senate One House— a comprehensive blueprint for our endeavors. For a closer look at the Senate’s proposed budget, click here.
Stay in the loop!
Stay informed on what’s going on in Albany during the legislative session. Follow me on social media and check out the Senate website for updates. Your participation is key as we strive for a future that's fair for everyone and I look forward to keeping you updated along the way. Let's make a difference together!
Peace & blessings,
RJ
*I invite you to continue reading this weekly update for valuable information on resources and employment opportunities. Stay safe!*
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