Paterson to deliver somber State of the State speech
|
ALBANY - In his first State of the State speech, Gov. David A. Paterson is expected today to stress urgency in closing a record budget deficit while also proposing to give young adults more access to health insurance.
Paterson unveiled his 2009-10 budget proposals five weeks early in hopes of securing speedy adoption. So, today's speech cannot serve its customary role of previewing a governor's fiscal plan.
Paterson instead will highlight key elements of his $121.1-billion spending blueprint, including less money for schools and hospitals, and dozens of new and higher taxes to eliminate $15.4 billion in red ink. He likely will present an even gloomier forecast of state tax collections than he did three weeks ago, saying this year's deficit may have grown by another $1 billion.
"This speech is going to be a reflection of what we've already seen in the budget: 'We have to cut,'" said Barbara Bartoletti of the League of Women Voters.
Paterson instead will highlight key elements of his $121.1-billion spending blueprint, including less money for schools and hospitals, and dozens of new and higher taxes to eliminate $15.4 billion in red ink. He likely will present an even gloomier forecast of state tax collections than he did three weeks ago, saying this year's deficit may have grown by another $1 billion.
"This speech is going to be a reflection of what we've already seen in the budget: 'We have to cut,'" said Barbara Bartoletti of the League of Women Voters.