New York state budget deadline extended amid spending concerns

ALBANY, N.Y. (WRGB) — The New York state budget deadline has been extended once again, now pushed to Thursday, as lawmakers grapple with spending concerns and potential federal funding changes.

Governor Kathy Hochul has proposed a budget ranging from $250 billion to $265 billion for 2026. On Monday, she opened the door for lawmakers to address any changes in federal funding. The state receives approximately $90 billion annually from the federal government, but it remains unclear how much could be cut.

We don't have a crystal ball that tells us the scale of cuts, if any," said Governor Hochul during a recent roundtable discussion. "I was trying to follow the president's press conference when he started naming different counties and how happy they're going to be. I don't know whether that meant he's going to give us the five or six billion dollars.

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Some lawmakers have expressed concerns over the state's increased spending, noting that it could be challenging to plan for potential cuts in the future.

In addition to addressing federal funding uncertainties, Governor Hochul has proposed tax cuts for the middle class, funding for restricted cell phone use in schools, investments in affordable housing, and public safety.

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Lawmakers are aiming to pass the state budget by the end of this week. Last year's budget was finalized on April 20, while in 2023, the spending plan was delayed until May as Hochul pushed for changes to New York's bail laws.