DiNapoli statement on agreement to end federal government shutdown

New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli issued this statement today:

"Last night's agreement to reopen the federal government and extend its authorization to borrow is welcome news, but only postpones the tough decisions that must be made. Failure to reach long-term budget solutions could have severe consequences for our economy and the financial markets in New York, the nation and abroad.

"The self-imposed turmoil in Washington created by a dug-in group of legislators was irresponsible and not the kind of leadership our country needs. Failure to reach an agreement could have been catastrophic. We should not have come so close to reaching that point, risking our leadership position in the global economy. It remains to be seen whether delaying action to the last minute will leave lingering damage.

"I urge New York's congressional delegation to continue to push the debate in the right direction, and applaud their steadfast leadership."