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For the fifth time since missing the April 1 deadline, New York state lawmakers are expected to approve another budget extender on Monday (April 20) to keep the government funded and state workers paid. The last extender, passed Thursday, provided funding through today, as negotiations over the final budget remain unresolved.
According to NEWS10 ABC, the total cost of all budget extenders so far has reached $7.5 billion, with the most recent measure allocating $79.1 million to prevent a government shutdown. The ongoing delays mean the state budget will be at least three weeks late.
Key issues holding up an agreement include reforms to car insurance laws, potential tax increases on wealthy residents, changes to school aid, and significant environmental policy debates. Lawmakers and Governor Kathy Hochul have also disagreed on housing construction regulations, immigration policy, and Tier 6 public pension reforms. The majority of these debates remain unresolved as of today.
Senate Deputy Majority Leader Michael Gianaris told reporters that leaders expect another short-term extender, as negotiations over spending targets and policy changes have not yet concluded. Gianaris explained that the latest $79.1 million appropriation covers essential services such as unemployment benefits and funding for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority.
Governor Hochul, known for late budgets, has argued that taking extra time is necessary to deliver a final package focused on affordability for New Yorkers. She has faced pushback, particularly on her proposals to change the state's climate law and car insurance rules. As Spectrum News 1 reports, Democratic leaders hope to reach an agreement soon but admit that many contentious issues are still under debate.
Lawmakers expect to continue negotiations throughout the week, with the possibility of more short-term extenders if no final budget agreement is reached. The final spending plan is likely to approach or exceed $270 billion.