Hochul’s investment in public schools is exactly what’s needed

Gov. Hochul’s historic commitment to invest in our public schools is a huge step forward, and is exactly what our state needs. Fully funded foundation aid will dramatically improve the lives of students, educators and families across New York.  

We [at the New York State United Teachers] celebrate the governor’s ongoing commitment to building a world-class public education system that supports New Yorkers at every stage of their educational lives, from universal pre-K to affordable, equitable higher education through operating aid for SUNY, CUNY and community colleges. 

We applaud her pledge to seriously address mental health concerns affecting students, families and educators across the state. This is a vital step to help ensure the safety of our schools and improve long-term outcomes for our students. 

We also commend the governor’s plan to connect the state minimum wage to inflation, providing much-needed financial relief to families across the state. 

We’re eager to review the governor’s full budget proposal later this month and look forward to working with her and our partners in the legislature to ensure that the final state budget delivers on the recommendations we outlined in our “Future Forward” report. 

As always, NYSUT will continue to advocate for our members, who selflessly devote themselves, day in and day out, to the communities they serve.

Andy Pallotta
President, New York State United Teachers
Albany, NY

Addressing issues of ‘paramount importance’

From strengthening public safety and mental health services to increasing affordable housing and reversing decades of population loss, Gov. Hochul’s State of the State address laid out an ambitious agenda to address issues that are of paramount importance to New York’s counties and the residents we serve. 

Counties are on the front lines of government, turning public policy into services that touch New Yorkers’ lives. 

We look forward to working with Gov. Hochul and the state legislature in the coming months to turn the vision laid out today into effective solutions that will help New Yorkers afford to stay and raise their families in our communities, and live safer, healthier lives.

Michael Zurlo 
President, New York State Association of Counties
Albany, NY