Governor Hochul held a press conference to announce that a conceptual agreement has been reached with legislative leaders regarding the Fiscal Year 2024 New York State Budget. The Governor presented a framework of the budget, which can be watched here. The Governor discussed priorities from her initial budget proposal that she expects will remain, be amended or omitted from the final budget. Of note, both Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie and Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins were not in attendance during this press conference.

Highlights of the framework of the budget include the following:

• Improving public safety;
• Investing $1 billion in mental health;
• Creating a stronger health care system;
• Providing record funding for P-12 schools and higher education;
• Implementing new comprehensive programs to ensure high-quality and affordable child care;
• Increasing minimum wage;
• Supporting tenants, including residents of public and subsidized housing with rental arrears;
• Generating additional revenue for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA);
• Combating climate change and investing in energy affordability;
• Building infrastructure and capital projects across the state;
• Supporting New Yorkers with disabilities;
• Expanding access and boosting demand for New York food and products;
• Expanding the enforcement powers of the Office of Cannabis Management and Department of Taxation and Finance to further grow the legal marketplace for cannabis; and
• Supporting New York Seniors.

More information on the highlights above can be found in the Governor’s announcement here.

While an agreement was announced, the Governor stated that other items will have to be worked out over the weekend. Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie spoke with reporters to confirm the conceptual agreement while noting that some issues still need to be discussed with members of his conference. Currently, Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins has not issued a formal statement regarding the Governor’s announcement.

Both Houses of the Legislature adjourned session on Wednesday at the call of their respective leaders.

Fifth Budget Extender Expiration

Earlier this week, the Legislature passed a fifth budget extender, which expires today. However, according to State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli, to avoid any possible disruptions regarding the May 4^th Institutional Payroll for state employees, a budget or budget extender must be passed by noon on Tuesday, May 2^nd.

Legislature Approves Redrawn Assembly Maps

This week, the Legislature voted on and approved the Assembly’s redrawn district maps. The Governor signed the bill on Monday (S.6454). The new Assembly district maps were drawn by the Independent Redistricting Commission (IRC) and can be viewed here. The maps were originally ordered by a judge after the previous version was rejected, but not in time to be redrawn before the 2022 election. The newly approved maps will take effect for the 2024 Assembly elections. 

Assembly Passes Birds and Bees Protection Act

On Tuesday, the Assembly passed the Birds and Bees Protection Act to restrict the use of neonicotinoid Pesticides (A.03226, Glick/S.1856, Hoylman-Sigal). The same as bill has not passed in the Senate and is still in the Environmental Conservation Committee. Specifically, this bill would restrict the use of neonicotinoid pesticides on certain seeds, outdoor ornamentals, and turf. Additionally, it would require the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) to identify practicable and feasible alternatives to the use of neonicotinoid pesticides.

Opponents of the bill, including the New York Farm Bureau, claim it would directly lead to an increase in carbon emissions and eliminate tools that play a crucial role in climate smart practices, biodiversity, and would negatively impact the agricultural economy without addressing the real threats facing pollinators.

Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie issued the following statement:

Sponsor of the bill, Assembly Environmental Conservation Chair Deborah J. Glick, issued the following statement:

More information can be found in the Assembly’s press release here.

Governor Announces Additional Funding Available for Environmental Justice Community Impact Grants

Governor Hochul announced an additional $6 million of funding available for grants that help communities facing environmental justice challenges. Eligibility information can be accessed here.

Since 2006, the State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has awarded more than $12 million in Community Impact Grants to Community-based organizations. These types of organizations can apply to receive up to $100,00 in funding for projects that address environmental and public health concerns of residents in impacted neighborhoods.

Governor Hochul said: