ROCKLAND COUNTY, NY – Assemblyman Patrick Carroll released the statement below on the New York State Budget

“No budget is perfect – while I had serious objections to how the process played out, particularly cramming in non-fiscal related policy matters at the last minute, I proudly voted for the state budget because it includes significant wins for Rockland County and all New Yorkers. Too often Rocklanders get the short end of the stick from our state government. Not this time. This budget that will make New York safer and more affordable, reflecting our values and priorities by delivering for our children, our seniors, and our families.

From record funding for our schools, including more than a two percent increase in foundation aid for all local schools, and universal school meals for all students across the state, to providing relief for middle class and working families with tax cuts and tax credits, no one, especially Rocklanders, will be left behind. By investing record funding in gun violence prevention, increased funding for mental health, and reforming our criminal justice laws, the safety of our children and our communities is at the forefront of this budget.

While the federal government slashes vital services and implements disastrous tariffs, we’re fighting for a better future for all New Yorkers. This budget does just that.”

As we head into the final stretch of the school year, our calendars fill with proms, graduations, and family gatherings. These are joyful milestones—moments that should be filled with laughter, photographs, and pride, not tragedy.
As both a father and a former NYPD Police Commander, I know all too well how one bad decision can turn a celebration into a catastrophe. Every day, approximately 37 people lose their lives in drunk-driving crashes across the United States, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. That’s 37 empty chairs at family dinners, graduations, and milestones that will never be experienced again.

Here in Rockland, we are taking action to help prevent these tragedies. Our Rockland County STOP DWI & Traffic Safety Office is proud to support the “No Empty Chair” initiative, a campaign backed by the New York State Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee. Its purpose is simple but powerful: to make sure no high school graduation or prom seat is left empty because of a preventable car crash.

We are asking every teen, parent, and community member to make smart choices and speak up when you see risky behavior. Specifically, we urge you to:

Drive responsibly
Never drink or use drugs and drive
Stay cell phone-free behind the wheel – no texting or calling
Always wear your seatbelt
If you’re in danger or unsure, make a call – it could save your life
To our young people: I know how exciting this time is for you. I want each of you to enjoy it fully—but safely. Your lives are just beginning, and your families, your schools, and your communities want nothing more than to see you succeed, thrive, and be there to celebrate the next chapter.

Let’s make sure every seat at graduation is filled, every prom photo has a full group, and every celebration ends with everyone home safe.

You matter. Let’s keep it that way.

This is a weekly column by Rockland County Executive Ed Day. Photo by the Haverstraw Police Department.