Still No Final Budget in Albany, Says Assemblymember Paula Kay

Governor Kathy Hochul says New Yorkers should expect real relief from the Fiscal Year 2026 state budget — but according to lawmakers on the ground, the deal isn’t done yet.In an interview with Radio Catskill, Assemblymember Paula Kay (D-100th District) said that although a framework has been reached on major policy priorities, the financial details of the $254 billion budget have not been finalized.“There is no final budget as of right now,” said Kay. “The only thing that’s been finalized are these policy issues that were inserted into the budget by the governor.”Governor Hochul earlier in the day announced an agreement had been reached with legislative leaders on key parts of the budget, calling it “a balanced, fiscally responsible budget” that will “make a real difference for New York families.”The proposed budget includes:A $1 billion tax cut for middle- and low-income New Yorkers — the largest in nearly 70 years.Doubling the Child Tax Credit for many families, including $1,000 per child under age 4.$2 billion in “Inflation Refund” checks for 8 million New Yorkers.$2.2 billion for expanded child care access, including $350 million for subsidies in New York City.A bell-to-bell cellphone ban in all public schools, with $13.5 million in implementation aid.$37 billion in School Aid, $357 million for gun violence prevention, and $68.4 billion for MTA capital investments.Changes to discovery laws and increased funding for prosecutors and defenders.However, Kay said critical fiscal elements — including hospital funding, child care distribution, and school aid formulas — are still under active discussion.“We have to actually go through all of the areas in the budget and make decisions,” Kay said. “Especially on things like foundation aid, hospitals, and making sure families in Sullivan and Orange counties have access to child care.”She added that while this is her first budget cycle as a legislator, her proposal to expand the use of virtual criminal arraignments — aimed at reducing court backlogs — will be included as part of the broader public safety reforms.“I certainly have learned a lot,” she said. “This will help law enforcement and court systems reduce delays and save resources.”Across the Capitol, State Senator Peter Oberacker (R-Schenevus) has also not seen a final budget. In a statement from his office, Communications Director Daniel Koerner confirmed:“There is no budget at this time and Senator Oberacker will be in session for the remainder of this morning and afternoon.”While legislative leaders have signaled they are close to enacting the full package, the votes have not yet been scheduled, and lawmakers remain in conference.“We’re here for the duration,” Kay said. “I don’t know how long that will be at this point.”