Amid numerous cuts in state budget proposal, welfare benefits see increase

By By EVAN WHITE

Story Created: Dec 17, 2008 at 5:28 PM EST

Story Updated: Dec 17, 2008 at 6:32 PM EST

UTICA, N.Y. (WKTV) - Governor David Paterson's budget proposal could provide a big boost for human services if it passes as-is.

The proposal calls for the first boost in the basic welfare grant in 18 years, though a shelter grant was raised in 2003. Basic grants would rise 30% over the next three years. Some officials, like Oneida County Director of Income Maintenance Arline Beaty like the idea.

She says those on public assistance who qualify, a number that could rise, will be able to put more money toward rent, and small necessities.

Others are not sure what to make of this, given that funding programs that aren't mandated could lose significant funds.

"Those are services for the aging, those are youth services, that we had to cut in this last budget cycle we had to cut some of our road funding...roads need to get repaired and plowed," said Picente.

He and other county leaders are expected to continue to review the budget in the coming weeks. They will then offer suggestions to state leaders of possible changes.
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