Lawmaker: Paterson Veto Cuts $7.4M Meant for Rockland Schools

When Gov. David Paterson put his veto stamp on portions of the state budget approved by the state Legislature, Rockland County lost $7.4 million in school aid, according to Assemblyman Kenneth Zebrowski, D-New City.

"The Budget is almost completely done. The Legislature went along with almost all of the cuts proposed by the governor but unfortunately he is digging his heels in on education aid," Zebrowski said Tuesday night. "The governor refuses to meet us half way on this issue, which is probably the last major sticking point. The governor proposed $1.4 billion in cuts, the Assembly and Senate passed $800 million in cuts. The Governor vetoed these restorations yesterday, which will cost Rockland Schools $7.4 million."

Zebrowski said that after some very difficult school budgets, where reserves were depleted, this money is critical for students and property taxpayers this year and next.

"The biggest sign that he is unwilling to negotiate occurred last Thursday morning," Zebrowski said of Paterson. "At a critical time in negotiations, the governor left Albany and wasn't available until Friday night when he made legislative leaders come to New York City to meet with him."

Zebrowski said the Legislature intends to pass the rest of the budget by Thursday and at this point the situation remains fluid.

"I am hopeful we come to an agreement with the governor on school aid because I think it will prove vital to preventing property tax increases next year," Zebrowski said. "If the Governor refuses to move on it, the budget may go forward with the full cut."