“New Yorkers deserve an equitable budget that prioritizes the health and safety of our communities. We are relieved that Mayor Adams and his Administration have heeded the calls and advocacy of the Council and New Yorkers who have sought a better approach to our city’s budget that protects essential services our constituents rely on. As the Council’s economists forecasted, New York City’s economy has proven durable and resilient, and blunt cuts that had a disproportionately negative impact on vital programs were never necessary. It remains critical for our municipal workforce to be strengthened, and the end of the full hiring freeze is an important step that will enable City agencies to fulfill their obligations to New Yorkers. We look forward to reviewing and analyzing the Mayor’s Preliminary Budget next month during the Council’s budget oversight hearings, including the impact of cuts to services supporting people seeking asylum, and we look forward to negotiating in good faith a budget that delivers for all New Yorkers.”

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