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Governor Kathy Hochul is actively promoting her affordability agenda, which she outlined during her 2025 State of the State address. On Thursday (March 27), she visited Watervliet Elementary School to discuss initiatives aimed at reducing the cost of living for New York families. Her plans include providing free school meals for children, cutting middle-class taxes to their lowest level in 70 years, and increasing the child tax credit. These proposals are currently under negotiation as lawmakers work to finalize a new state budget by April 1.
Governor Hochul's agenda also emphasizes the importance of free school meals. According to Governor Hochul, this initiative will ensure that all of New York's 2.7 million students can receive breakfast and lunch at no cost, helping to address food insecurity and save families money. The proposal builds on existing federal support and aims to save families an estimated $165 per child in grocery expenses each month.
Additionally, Governor Hochul's 2025 State of the State address included over 200 initiatives to make New York more affordable. These initiatives focus on putting money back in people's pockets, supporting families, and ensuring a brighter future for all New Yorkers. The governor remains committed to fighting for the people of New York, stating, "Your family is my fight — and I will never stop fighting for the people of New York."