Paterson Vetoes Popular AIDS, HIV Housing Bill

The Democratic governor said it was "the hardest veto'' he has every issued, but added that the state could not afford the $20 million in yearly subsidies the program would cost.

"This is my most difficult veto,'' Paterson said. "I recognize, sadly, the history of the inadequacy of services government has brought to bear for those with HIV/AIDS. But, unhappily, this is not the only veto decision I have had to make that could adversely affect innocent New Yorkers who are seriously ill or disabled and who look to government for assistance. Yet, I am duty bound.''

Paterson said if the Legislature can find the funding, he will sign the bill.

Advocates said the veto will force more people suffering from AIDS and HIV into homelessness. They criticized the governor's action as counterproductive, saying that caring for people in homeless shelters and in hospital emergency rooms is more expensive than caring for people who have a place to live.