As Governor Paterson and legislative leaders are negotiating a deal on a framework for a plan to reduce the State’s $3.2 billion dollar deficit over the next few days it is becoming increasingly evident that the cuts to education and Medicaid proposed by Governor Paterson will not be part of a final agreement with the Legislature. To that end, transit systems may see cuts to operating aid well above and beyond the 2.89% reduction proposed in October. Medicaid and Education make up 75% of the State Budget which leaves 25% open to cuts.

Legislative leaders in both houses will be negotiating with the Governor throughout the weekend and into next week to reach agreement on a final deficit reduction plan, which could be voted on as early is next week.

In addition to calling your own Senate and Assembly members, it is absolutely urgent that all systems call and urge the below legislators to reject any cuts to operating for New York’s transit systems!

Senator John Sampson

Senator Martin Dilan

Speaker Sheldon Silver

Assemblyman David Gantt

You can reach the above legislators through the Senate Switchboard (518-455-2800) and the Assembly Switchboard (518-455-4100)

You can find a NYPTA memo opposing further cuts to STOA which you can use a reference when reaching out to legislators by Clicking Here.

If you have any questions or comments, you can contact us at 518-465-7330 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Weingarten, Reid & McNally, LLC
One Commerce Plaza, Suite 402
Albany, NY 12210
Phone 518-465-7330
Fax 518-465-0273
Visit us on the web at www.lobbywr.com

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