All legislators were involved. The cooperation between the Senate and Assembly enabled the conference panels to resolve real differences between the two houses and resulted in the earliest state budget in five years. With the governor's budget now on the table, I am anxious to begin the process. This year, Senate Republicans have again called for the use of conference committees to negotiate the state budget, already announcing our appointments to nine conference subcommittees. I have the opportunity again to serve on the education panel, where I will work to preserve the STAR program and drive state aid to our upstate schools.
Conference committees mean balancing interests and achieving results.
By using them again this year, we can build on last year's success and enact an on-time budget that keeps our economy growing, reduces debt, cuts taxes and provides for our vital needs. I look forward to hearing from my constituents on priority budget issues. NY.US with your full name and address, not only a user I.D. Conference committees work. We can achieve a good budget on time, if we work together. James L. Seward Albany Seward is a state senator for the 50th District.