The Erie County Legislature Majority Caucus – Chairman John Mills, Majority Leader Joseph Lorigo and Legislators Lynne Dixon, Kevin Hardwick, Ted Morton and Edward Rath – have submitted a resolution for the March 13, 2014 session, opposing Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s proposal that would utilize tax dollars to provide inmates free college tuition. The Legislators join several elected officials and organizations that have come out in opposition of this proposal.

“The cost of college in New York State rises continuously and hard-working, law abiding citizens are shackled with the cost of that education for much of their lives. Student loans are among the highest bill paid each month by residents, in addition to being taxed greatly every year. Using those tax dollars to provide inmates with a college degree is simply something our residents shouldn’t be forced to pay for,” said Chairman Mills.

The Governor proposed the idea on Feb. 16 to fund college courses inside 10 New York State’s prisons, with inmates provided access to both associates and bachelor’s degrees.

“As families and students struggle to figure out ways to pay for college tuition or student loans, I find it insulting that the governor feels we should provide free education to convicted felons,” said Majority Leader Lorigo.

The Majority Caucus will approve the resolution at its next session, forwarding a certified copy to state officials, putting Erie County on record as opposing this proposition.

For additional information, please contact Chairman Mills at 858-8850 or email john.mills@erie.gov. Please visit the Legislature’s website at www.erie.gov/legislature for announcements.