State Senator Patty Ritchie, R-Heuvelton, says she is “disappointed” with Governor Andrew Cuomo’s veto of legislation she sponsored that would have provided a tax deduction for parents who adopt a child with special needs.

The measure would have amended the New York state tax law to establish a taxpayer deduction of $10,000 annually for parents adopting a special needs child from the time of adoption through 21 years of age.

“I am disappointed with the governor’s decision to veto this important piece of legislation that would have removed another obstacle for parents looking to adopt a special needs child,” Ritchie said in a prepared statement. “There are thousands of children in foster care throughout the state, many with physical, emotional, mental or other special needs. By providing this type of extra tax incentive to parents interested in adopting a special needs child, it would only serve to help them meet costs and the extra challenges involved as they provide a loving and stable home environment to a deserving child.”

There are over 23,000 children in foster care in New York State, many with special needs, that are costing the state over $759 million to care for and provide services to, according to Ritchie.

The legislation “was one of numerous bills vetoed by the governor this week,” Ritchie said.