With a vote of 51-49 the tax reform bill was passedby the Senate early Saturday morning.
The bill was met with criticism from Democrats saying they didn't have ample time to read the sweeping legislation that would overhaul the U.S. tax system, according to CNN.
Officials in New York State have already begun to share their thoughts on the passing of the bill.
Congressman Chris Collins released this statement to Eyewitness News:
“Now that the Senate has passed tax reform, we are one step closer to delivering on a once-in-a-generation opportunity to replace our outdated and complicated tax code. By doubling the standard deduction, lowering tax rates, and enhancing the family tax credit, families in Western New York will be able to keep more of what they earn. Tax reform will unleash America’s competitiveness and bring jobs and profits back home, where they belong. While there are differences in the House and Senate versions of the legislation, we will find common ground in conference and get this important bill to President Trump’s desk.”
Governor Cuomo also weighed in earlier this morning:
"Late last night, the Senate passed a tax bill that slashes tax rates for corporations and is hugely advantageous for the wealthiest Americans. These cuts will be paid for by working and middle class families across our nation. It will hit New York hardest. With this plan, Republicans in Congress are robbing New Yorkers of billions of dollars, endangering the health care of millions of Americans, and exploding the federal deficit. The devastating impacts both intended, as well as unintended given the rushed, secretive approach taken in writing and voting on this plan cannot be overstated. To implement discredited trickle-down economics and repeal health care for millions under the cover of tax reform before the public, or even every Senator can be informed of the details in the plan, is proof positive of just how bad that plan is."
He later mentions the bill, "helps the rich and corporations and does nothing to deliver on their false promise to our middle class citizens."
In the release Cuomo also urges New York's Republican delegation to "put New York first."
