New York State budget allocates funds to Asian communities to help curb anti-Asian hate crimes

　　China News Service, April 12th. According to the U.S. "Overseas News" report, New York State Representative Edward C. Braunstein announced on the 11th New York State’s budget for the fiscal year 2021-2022. Budgets for assistance and rent and housing loan relief have increased.

At the same time, in response to the surge in anti-Asian hatred and violence during the epidemic, US$10 million was allocated to Asian community organizations to carry out measures to curb anti-Asian hate crimes in the community.

　　In terms of funding for Asian and Pacific Americans, Brunstein said that due to the surge in anti-Asian discrimination and violence during the epidemic, New York State allocated 10 million US dollars for Asian community organizations so that community organizations can actively stop anti-hate Asians.

In terms of education funding, students are gradually returning to campus, and New York State has increased its funding for state schools. This historic funding will exceed $3 billion.

The State House of Representatives strived to increase the education fund, about 1.4 billion U.S. dollars, to ensure that the younger generation has quality education.

In addition, in order to increase the affordability of childcare services in New York State, a special allocation of US$2.4 billion was allocated to help workers’ families.

　　Brunstine particularly emphasized the importance of helping small businesses recover. He said that thousands of small businesses and restaurants are the core of New York State’s economy. The $1 billion corporate relief program has achieved a huge victory in helping small businesses restart. The US$800 million small business recovery subsidy program will soon be passed, and the aid will be used by the industry to pay rent, utilities and other expenses.

For New York City restaurants that have been hit hard by the epidemic, a tax credit of $35 million will be retained.

To revive the cultural and art industry, they set up a US$100 million Music and Theatrical Production Credit and a US$40 million Art Recovery Grant Program.

In terms of rent and mortgage assistance, the federal and state allocated $3 billion to provide direct relief to landlords and tenants, including $575 million in mortgage assistance, which can be used to pay utility bills, management fees, and reduced rents.

(Zhang Jing)