SC New York News

State Senator Tom O'Mara has expressed concern over Governor Kathy Hochul's proposed 2025-2026 state budget, which he describes as a "record-breaking" $252 billion fiscal plan. According to O'Mara, this budget increases spending by nearly $20 billion compared to the previous year and fails to address key fiscal challenges.

O'Mara highlighted that since the beginning of one-party control by Democrats in 2019, state spending has surged by approximately $70 billion, representing a 40% increase that surpasses inflation rates. He stated, "Governor Hochul and Albany Democrats are addicted to spending. They can’t stop. It’s out of control and it’s shocking."

He further criticized the budget for ignoring New York's status as one of the highest-taxed states with significant debt and regulation issues. He warned that ongoing spending commitments could lead to unsustainable financial burdens on taxpayers, small businesses, and local communities.

O'Mara also noted his concerns regarding the Democrat-led Legislature's approach to increasing long-term spending commitments. As the Ranking Republican member on the Senate Finance Committee, he will play a role in overseeing the Legislature's annual budget adoption process.

Joint Senate-Assembly budget hearings are set to commence next week. In response to Democrat proposals, O'Mara and other Senate GOP members have introduced a "Liberate New York" legislative agenda focusing on public safety, economic growth, tax relief, regulatory reform, and affordability initiatives.