By Julie Marlette, Hinman Straub
As of the writing of this article, the New York State budget is officially 23 days late. Negotiations over non-financial policy priorities for the Governor have delayed any meaningful conversation on traditional financial issues. The key issues prioritized by the Governor are:
· Discovery reform.
· Changes to involuntary commitment.
· A ban on wearing masks in public/enhanced penalties for wearing a mask during the commission of a crime.
· Adoption of a mandatory bell to bell cell phone ban in schools.
These four issues have been driving budget conversations for the last month. Adding to the delay, the Governor has also floated a proposal to change the way in which the lieutenant governor is elected. Traditionally, the two positions have run separate elections. Instead, Gov. Hochul is suggesting that the governor and lieutenant governor should run together on a ticket.
At this time, it is likely that an 8th extender will be adopted on Thursday when they return to session. It is not yet clear for how long that extender will be however.
To date, regular legislative activities have not been significantly disrupted. This week and last were slated to be “break weeks.” Generally a post budget legislative break is aligned with observance of Easter and Passover. Next week, legislature would normally be returning for “post-budget” attention to other regular legislation and committee work. While committees meet all session, and bills have been passed throughout the session, the bulk of bills are generally passed in the last 5 weeks of session. With the state budget still unresolved however, it is almost certain that business as usual will be disrupted. This means that the process of advancing legislation will be even more challenging in the final weeks of session.
We will keep NEAFA leadership apprised of activity as it occurs.