By Eileen Buckley
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wbfo/local-wbfo-950380.mp3
Buffalo, NY – Governor Cuomo's proposed budget would cut millions of dollars in funding to Roswell Park Cancer Institute. It would slash state allocations to Roswell by nearly one-third as it operates at a public benefit corporation.
"We feel strongly this is a disproportionate cut to Roswell Park," said Roswell Park president and CEO Dr. Donald Trump.
Roswell currently receives more than $100 million from the state. But Trump tells WBFO News Governor Cuomo is proposing to cut $32.8 million.
"The $25 million has been directed over the last four years to capital maintenance and capital projects and the other $8 million of support are directed at programs science and education activities that make Roswell Park a cancer center," said Trump.
Trump noted this sharp reduction, if approved, would place a big burden on Roswell and could seriously compromise its ability to fulfill its mission.
"One of the consternation's that I have is that the Governor has emphasized his commitment that programs that work should be rewarded for that, and should be examples for others, and I don't think there are any questions that Roswell works," said Trump.
The state has provided operational support throughout Roswell's history as a state agency. And even as Roswell receives state funds, it in turn issues $22-million in debt-service payments for the cost of reconstruction of the campus. Trump plans to call on everyone who could influence the final numbers from members of the Western New York State delegation to Roswell Park supporters.