North Country Leader

Assemblyman Scott Gray from Watertown released a new episode of his video series, "The Gray Area," discussing Governor Hochul's State of the State address. Gray critiqued the address for focusing heavily on urban issues and neglecting upstate communities and the North Country.

Gray expressed concerns about the affordability of Hochul's proposals. He supported her focus on middle-class tax cuts but highlighted the significant costs associated with expanding the Child Tax Credit and providing universal school meals. "Affordability isn’t a switch you can flip," said Gray, emphasizing the need for thoughtful legislative changes to manage budget constraints.

Commenting on Hochul’s “inflation refund” plan, Gray remarked, “Refunding unanticipated revenue isn’t the same as making life more affordable.” He questioned the feasibility and costs of all initiatives, seeking clarity on who would bear these expenses.

Gray supports housing expansion but stresses balancing it with rehabilitation efforts. “Building more homes is critical, especially in the North Country, but it cannot come at the expense of rehabilitating what we already have,” he explained.

On mental health treatment expansion, Gray acknowledged its importance but noted infrastructure inadequacies like hospital beds. He stated that hospitals cannot replace jails in addressing mental health within criminal justice.

Education was another area where Gray found shortcomings in Hochul’s address. Despite extensive studies by the Rockefeller Institute of Government, there was no detailed agenda for education. He also questioned free community college sustainability given funding shortfalls.

Regarding energy and environment proposals, Gray appreciated Hochul’s $1 billion investment plan but stressed that details are crucial for effective implementation.

Gray concluded by inviting viewers to engage with his office staff for further discussion and announced future episodes of "The Gray Area."