Nassau Standard

Assemblyman Ed Ra (R-Franklin Square) is calling for clarity in light of recent changes to non-citizen eligibility for Safety Net Assistance (SNA) and urging the passage of a transparency bill to ensure accountability in government spending.

The changes in eligibility criteria, particularly for non-citizens recognized as Permanently Residing Under Color of Law (PRUCOL), have raised concerns about the allocation and utilization of taxpayer dollars. Assemblyman Ra emphasized the importance of transparency, stating, "It is crucial we ensure transparency in the allocation and utilization of taxpayer dollars, especially when it comes to providing assistance to non-citizen individuals."

In a letter addressed to Governor Hochul and Acting Commissioner Guinn, Ra highlighted specific financial allocations, saying, "My letter to Gov. Hochul and Acting Commissioner Guinn addresses concerns about the $160 million allocated for SNA for asylum seekers in the FY25 Executive Budget Financial Plan, with $67 million designated for FY25 alone."

Ra emphasized the public's right to know how their money is being spent, especially when it involves meeting the needs of hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers. He stressed the importance of government accountability and transparency, stating, "The people who were born here, work here day in and day out, fight for this country, own business throughout our state and contribute to making it the place we know and love demand a government that is accountable and transparent in its actions."

The Assemblyman's push for clarity and transparency comes in the wake of the recent changes in SNA eligibility for non-citizens, highlighting the need for oversight and accountability in government spending.