New York City Comptroller William C. Thompson, Jr. today issued the following statement after the mayor issued his budget address:

“As Comptroller I recognize that times are tough. At a time when more people are losing their jobs, their homes or healthcare, and they require more assistance from our great city, we face a shrinking budget and sharp cutbacks in support from the state. Simply put, there are no easy solutions.

However, the Mayor’s plan would balance the budget on the backs of working people.

The Mayor’s budget proposal relies far too heavily on a sales tax increase at a time when the city’s hardworking families and small businesses are suffering.

Instead, I propose an increase in the city’s personal income tax focused on high-income taxpayers earning more than $500,000 annually. Such an increase could sunset in better times.

# # #