Assemblyman Christopher S. Friend (R,C,I-Big Flats) is calling for all settlement funds awarded to the state be used to benefit ailing local and state infrastructure, be used to pay debt services, and have the state assume full control of the Medicaid system in the 57 counties outside of New York City.

“We have a unique opportunity with these bank settlement funds to perform the necessary repairs to our infrastructure in order to better compete in the 21st Century economy,” Friend said. “A portion of these funds must be guaranteed to fix our roads and bridges, which are in a failing state because of the recent harsh winter. We also now have the appropriate funds to have the state assume the Medicaid liability for all counties outside of New York City. The remaining funds should be used to pay down the state’s outstanding debt. This strategy would be beneficial for our local communities, local governments, and help ensure the financial stability of our state government.”