Governor Andrew Cuomo is set to detail his budget proposals for the state's 2013-2014 fiscal year beginning April 1. He's expected to propose about $132 billion in spending and attack a deficit of at least $1 billion.
When Governor Cuomo takes the wraps off his budget for 2013, he'll explain how programs he announced earlier this month in his State of the State message will be funded. Cuomo is NOT expected to propose a tax hike to pay for the initiatives and to close the budget deficit. The Governor has promised that his budget address will be notable for its lack of surprises.
Cuomo has notified state agencies they should plan for no or little spending increases over the current budget totaling about $133 billion. Total costs from Hurricane Sandy are still unknown.
School aid is budgeted for a 4-percent hike and that could go higher to pay for school security under "The NY Safe Act of 2013," signed into law last week.
Barbara Bartoletti is the Legislative director for the New York State League of Women Voters - she expects Cuomo to outline his plan for funding expanded pre-K education. She adds that today counties will be looking for mandate relief and activists whether the Governor will direct more money to the Department of Environmental Conservation.
Legalized gambling isn't expected to carry much weight if addressed at all today: Cuomo's plan to expand casinos throughout the state won't pick up much steam until late in the year. Some legislators including Senator Liz Krueger, are promoting the idea of using gambling proceeds to pay for public financing of elections. Krueger says the model involves licensing casinos on an annual basis.
Tracey Brooks, President and CEO of Family Planning Advocates of New York State expects the spending plan will maintain the state's commitment to family planning services.
As New York deals with the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy and tax collections lagging behind projections, State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli told WCBS Radio that he anticipates a lean budget from Cuomo.
The budget address is to be given at 2 p.m.. The legislature has until the end of March to either approve the plan or submit changes.
