New York lawmakers are facing delays in finalizing the state’s budget, as negotiations over housing and education funding continue. Senate Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins has indicated that an extension will likely be needed to keep the government functioning while talks progress. The budget deadline of April 1 is expected to be missed, as discussions between Democratic leaders of the Senate and Assembly, as well as Gov. Kathy Hochul, are ongoing. Last year’s budget was delayed by over a month due to disagreements over bail laws and housing construction plans.
Lawmakers are working to reach a consensus on a housing plan that includes new construction, tenant protections, and tax breaks for developers in an effort to address affordable housing in the state. Stewart-Cousins emphasized the importance of finding a comprehensive plan that addresses both affordability and supply, while also protecting tenants. In addition to housing, there are disagreements over Hochul’s proposal to increase criminal penalties for assaulting retail workers as part of a broader strategy to combat crime in the state. Legislative leaders have rejected this plan, arguing that existing laws against assault are sufficient and that harsher penalties may not effectively deter crime.
Hochul’s proposal to change how education funding is distributed has also sparked debate among lawmakers. While the governor believes that her plan will result in more equitable distribution of funds to schools in need, critics argue that some districts may receive less funding under the new system. Legislative leaders have suggested conducting a study to improve the state’s school funding formula in the future. Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie has acknowledged the potential for an extension to finalize the budget, but maintains that he, the Senate, and the governor are mostly in agreement. However, Heastie humorously noted that sometimes in budget negotiations, different parties may feel like they are in different galaxies.
Despite the delays and disagreements, officials have expressed optimism that progress is being made in the budget negotiations. Meetings between Democratic leaders and the governor have been described as productive, with efforts being made to find common ground on key issues such as housing and education funding. Lawmakers are working towards a shared goal of creating a budget that addresses the needs of the state while also addressing concerns around affordability, supply, and tenant protections. While an extension may be necessary to finalize the budget, there is a sense of collaboration and determination among officials to reach a resolution that benefits all New Yorkers.
