New York City Comptroller William C. Thompson, Jr. today released the following statement regarding proposed changes to the federal stimulus package:

“The removal of $40 billion in state and local government assistance from the Senate’s stimulus bill is a serious error that will, if carried through to the final stimulus bill, undermine our prospects of recovery and reduce our nation’s competitiveness and prosperity in the future.

In particular, ensuing cuts in education spending will not only lead to even higher unemployment across the country, but impede the ability of our children to attain a quality education that prepares them to lead and innovate. At a time when New York City must do everything in its power to diversify its economy, depriving both children and adults of the education and training they need to compete will impede our recovery.”

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