Pataki to PEF: Lack of budget will not bring state to a halt

By DARCY WELLS

Gov. George Pataki assured PEF President Roger Benson at a private meeting in March that he would do all that he can to ensure that a shutdown of state services will not occur if a 2005-06 state budget is not in place by March 31 when the previous budget expires.

Benson met with Pataki on March 10 amid growing concerns over comments by some advocacy groups supporting the shutdown of state government in the absence of an April 1 budget agreement. 

Benson raised his serious concerns with the governor over the rumblings of a shutdown. 

“We all want to see a budget in place when the new fiscal year begins.” Benson said. “However, as much as we all want a timely budget, it would be irresponsible for anyone to hold government services hostage to a shutdown in order to secure a budget agreement that only satisfies the needs of a single interest group.

“New York State employees should not and will not be used as pawns during state budget negotiations,” Benson said. “I met with the governor to reinforce our concerns, as well as his previous position. I am pleased to announce the governor agrees with PEF’s position. The governor has assured me he is opposed to a shutdown.” 

The governor not only committed that he would not allow a shutdown of state government, but gave assurances that he would continue to work with legislative leaders to reach a budget agreement and avoid a shutdown.

“I encourage all parties in the state budget negotiations to work together to ensure the continuation of state services and achieve their budget priorities,” Benson said.