New York State Assembly Approves $135 Billion Budget

The New York State Assembly worked throughout the day and into the night Thursday to finalize a $135 billion budget before the April 1st deadline and finished passing individual bills shortly before midnight.

Both Republicans and Democrats expressed dissatisfaction with several portions of the final plan. Several said reductions in funding for programs for the developmentally disabled, even if, as the Cuomo administration claimed, the cuts to administrative overhead, were reprehesible as tax breaks were being directed to try to lure late night television shows from California to New York City.

Also under criticism is a $350 tax rebate for some low income New Yorkers.  Critics said they had issues with the money only going to families who have chldren under the age of 17 while other families and seniors are also struggling financially.

The final budget agreement is expected to get the Governor's signature before Monday's deadline.