Tuesday, March 31, 2009

Addie Russell Speaks on the Budget

The following is courtesy of Gouverneurtimes.com  An interesting news site well worth a look-see.
Here are some of the highlights of the article.

Ensuring working families do not shoulder the tax burden
“Currently in New York it does not matter if you make $40,000 or $40 million – you pay the same tax rate. That puts a greater burden on the middle class,” Russell said. “In addition, most high earners live either outside of New York State or in New York City. This surcharge will give the North Country a fighting chance.”


Restoring $1.1 billion to school districts
“The budget could have been a disaster for schools, students and taxpayers,” Russell said. “In preparation for state cuts to school aid, many Jefferson and St. Lawrence County school districts were slated to lay off staff, cut services, sports and after school activities while still needing to raise taxes. The aid provided in the budget will help alleviate some of these measures.” 

Protecting health care
“Families are faced with some of the toughest decisions they have had to make amidst this recession,” Russell said. “Maintaining adequate funding for healthcare will allow struggling families to ensure they and their children will be cared for.”

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