U.S. Rep. Meeks Applauds Passage of NY State FY2016-17 Budget

U.S. Rep. Meeks Applauds Passage of NY State FY2016-17 Budget

Jamaica, NY- Congressman Gregory W. Meeks issued the following statement regarding passage of New York State’s fiscal year 2016-17 budget:

“The passage of this year’s budget is a testament to our state legislators’ and Governor’s ability to deliver for the people of New York. Speaker Heastie and state Democrats worked to produce a budget deal that invests in education, seeks to eradicate poverty, and strengthens the middle-class in New York. Hard-working New Yorkers will no longer have to choose between earning a paycheck and caring for loved ones. In making New York the state with the most robust paid family leave, we’re helping mothers and fathers of newborns, individuals with sick family members, and the families of our nation’s honorable military servicemen and women.

“Raising the minimum wage—a critical piece of this deal—ensures that our great state is affordable to all, which is why I have always advocated for a substantial increase. To the 2.3 million people who will now earn higher wages, this came as welcome news for them and their families. Our state has always been a leader in social and economic justice, and our state government continued that noble tradition yesterday with the budget deal. I commend leaders in the State Assembly and State Senate, and Governor Cuomo for setting an example for other states to follow.”

###