Statement from Comptroller Brad Lander on Governor Hochul’s Proposed FY 2023 State Budget

(New York, NY) – Following the release of Governor Hochul’s proposed Fiscal Year 2023 budget for the State of New York, New York City Comptroller Brad Lander issued the following statement:

“The New York State budget process is beginning as we turn a corner on the current wave of the pandemic, which continues to destabilize our communities and our economy. While there are positive signs of growth in the economy, we must be laser-focused on ensuring a recovery that reaches all New York communities.

“Our spending priorities for the coming years must guarantee that inclusive recovery. I’m glad to see investments in our essential healthcare workforce and clean energy. And I support Governor Hochul’s plans to build up state reserves.

“Housing remains an urgent issue for New Yorkers, and I’ll be closely watching to push for smart use of the State’s affordable housing dollars and the plan to spend the $25 billion over the course of five years.

“In her State of the State address, Governor Hochul rightly highlighted 421-a as a costly boondoggle that does not achieve our affordable housing goals. It can’t simply be modified slightly and renamed again. Instead, we should end 421-a, eliminate inequities behind rentals and condos through property tax reform, and then utilize housing tax benefits to create truly affordable housing for those who need it most – scaled appropriately to the depth and length of affordability.

“I look forward to reviewing the Governor’s budget proposals in detail and speaking to the legislature about New York City’s needs and prospects in the coming weeks.”

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