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New York state lawmakers are back at the Capitol today as they work to finalize a budget that is now three weeks overdue. Despite some progress on key issues like changes to the state's discovery laws, other topics, including a ban on cell phones in schools and a crackdown on public mask-wearing, remain unresolved. Lawmakers may need to pass another budget extender to ensure the state can continue to pay its bills.
Governor Kathy Hochul's proposal to restrict public mask-wearing has faced significant hurdles in the legislature. The proposal, which aims to penalize "masked harassment," lacks widespread support among lawmakers. Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie noted that only about half of the Democrats in his chamber back the bill. Hochul has been relatively quiet on the issue, which was not included in her state of the state priorities, but was introduced during budget negotiations.
According to the New York Post, Hochul has adopted a strategic approach, stating, "I have different strategies. You can look past years on issues that have come up later and have been successful."
Meanwhile, the budget talks continue amid ongoing negotiations over the state's fiscal priorities. Hochul has emphasized her commitment to tackling crime, improving the mental health system, and increasing affordable housing. The budget is currently estimated at $237 billion and does not raise income or statewide business taxes.
As lawmakers return to Albany, they face the challenge of reaching a consensus on these contentious issues to finalize the budget and address the state's pressing needs.