January 7, 2009 - In his first State of the State address, Governor David A. Paterson outlined his plan for a stronger New York including the need to confront the current fiscal crisis head on. He laid out a progressive policy agenda to help working families during these difficult times including calling for one of the most ambitious clean energy plans in the nation, setting a “45 by 15” goal that 45 percent of New York State’s electricity needs will be met through improved energy efficiency and greater use of clean renewable energy by 2015. This goal will also create 50,000 new jobs for New Yorkers. Governor Paterson also announced that he will introduce legislation to expand family health coverage to cover family members up through the age of 29 and he laid out a five-point plan to address the growing obesity epidemic that now affects one in four children in the State of New York.
On December 16, 2008, more than one month prior to the constitutional deadline, Governor Paterson delivered a balanced Executive Budget which would eliminate the largest budget deficit in State history.
David A. Paterson became New York’s 55th Governor on March 17, 2008. In his first address as Governor, Paterson spoke about the challenges New York faces and his plan for New York’s future.
In his 23 years serving the people of New York, Governor Paterson has worked towards change by reaching across party lines and bringing people together. His thoughtful, inclusive approach to governing has won him the respect of colleagues and a reputation for uniting disparate forces towards consensus that benefits all New Yorkers. Learn more about governor Paterson >>
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