Aside from 2017, Gov. Andrew Cuomo has tried to stick to his first campaign pledge to get the state budget passed on time. This year though, he's warning that there could be a delay if the legislature doesn't deliver on what he wants.

Cuomo argues that a permanent extension of the state's cap on property taxes is good for taxpayers. As he tries to get the Legislature to approve, he argues it's good for lawmaker’s re-election prospects as well.

“If you're thinking about your constituents, why wouldn't you pass a permanent tax cap? It works,” said Cuomo. “It's been there for six years.”

The cap limits increases in property taxes at 2 percent or the rate of inflation. First approved in 2011, it's meant to control the highest property taxes in the country.

Cuomo on Monday was joined by business leaders from around the state to call for the cap's permanent extension. Former Lieutenant Governor Bob Duffy, who now leads the greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce, was among them.

“Predictability is important, knowing about taxes, and consistency,” said Duffy. “If you're a business or a family and you know it's going to be in a certain range every year, it's helpful for making plans.”

But it's going to be harder sell with Democrats in the state Legislature. Assemblyman Phil Steck called a permanent tax cap simply an empty gesture.

“I do strongly support the tax cap,” Steck said. “Making it permanent, it's really just words. It doesn't mean anything. You can't bind future legislators.“

Some lawmakers want to see changes to the cap, such as making it easier to override or no longer linking it the rate of inflation. Cuomo, however, says he would oppose efforts to weaken the cap.

“What they are talking about is exceptions to the cap, which in essence raise the cap,” said Cuomo.

The tax cap itself does not expire until next year, but has historically been linked to rent control regulations for New York City. Those are set to expire in June.