The New York State Assembly approved a nearly $39 billion education funding package today as part of the state budget.
Assemblyman Aron Wieder, who represents the 97th District, spoke on the floor before the vote, expressing reservations while announcing his support for the bill.
“What would happen in the private sector if a CEO managed the highest operating budget in the industry, delivered disappointing results, and then received nearly a 50% salary increase? Shareholders would demand accountability,” Wieder said. “Yet here in New York, we are preparing to approve nearly $39 billion in education funding, while too many parents and taxpayers are still asking where the results are.”
“Let me be clear. I will be voting yes on this budget bill, but I do so with great reservations,” he continued. “New York already spends more per pupil than almost every other state in the nation. Yet we continue to see chronic absenteeism, uneven reading and math scores, and growing frustration from families across the state.”
Wieder highlighted a nearly 50% salary increase for the state’s education commissioner and leadership — which raised compensation above $150,000 — while student performance continues to lag. “At some point, accountability must matter,” he said. “If we are investing at historic levels, then leadership must also be expected to deliver measurable improvement.”
He concluded: “I support this budget because our students deserve opportunity in strong schools, but funding alone cannot be the measure of success. Results matter, accountability matters, and the children of New York State deserve excellence.”
The measure passed with strong Democratic support. The full budget still requires Senate approval and the governor’s signature.
