This is the second segment of a five-part series summarizing and explaining the New York State 2003-04 adopted budget.

Education has always been my top priority because no investment is as important as the investment we make in our children. The enacted 2003-04 New York State budget supports the education of all of New York's children by restoring $1.1 billion in school aid. The local aid restoration helps school districts reduce proposed property tax increases, ensure the best possible education for our children and provide the resources teachers need to be effective. As a result of the restorations, there is funding for teacher centers, teacher support aid, Universal Pre-K, BOCES aid, transportation aid and operating aid.

Regarding the development of the state budget, the Legislature denied a proposal to cap the state's School Tax Relief Program (STAR), which would have cost local property taxpayers $93 million. As a result, homeowners who qualify for the basic exemption under STAR will receive the full benefit under the program. This action by the Legislature further solidifies its commitment to property tax relief for the state's homeowners in State Fiscal Year 2003-2004.

As for higher education, the budget restores $410 million in aid including $262 million to fully restore funding for the Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) to help low and middle income students afford a higher education; $18.7 million in BUNDY Aid to offset the costs at private colleges and universities; and $74 million in Community College Base Aid to help keep the cost of a community college education affordable. Additionally, the Legislature reduced the proposed $1,200 SUNY tuition increase to $950, putting $250 back into students' pockets. These actions correct attempts to balance the budget on the backs of students struggling to finance their education.

The next segment of Senator Hannon's five-part series on the State Fiscal Year 2003-04 Adopted State Budget will focus on Health Care.