Note: in his Senate confirmation hearings as Attorney General, Todd Blanche assured Texas Senator Ted Cruz he would go after women’s right to obtain the abortion medication mifepristone through the mail, applying the Comstock Act’s prohibition of mailing “obscene materials” (guns okay to send through mail, mail-in ballots not okay) and opening the door to a national abortion ban. With this reward to a convicted anti-abortion extremist, the trump administration is also opening the door to intimidation and violence against women and healthcare practitioners, much as they have given blessing to January 6 insurrectionists. Meanwhile, Trump is still pushing for his $1.776 BILLION fund to pay January 6 insurrectionists 7-figure “settlements”. – Karen Rubin, editor@news-photos-features.com
Washington, D.C. — The trump administration is handing a seven-figure, taxpayer-funded settlement to a convicted anti-abortion extremist who prevented patients from accessing reproductive healthcare. Paul Vaughn was convicted of violating the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act after helping blockade a Tennessee clinic. This hefty payout is an alarming escalation after President Trump pardoned Vaughn and 22 other anti-abortion extremists convicted under the FACE Act just days into his second term.
This news comes as acting Attorney General Todd Blanche, a staunch opponent of the FACE Act, awaits Senate confirmation to become the Attorney General permanently. Under Blanche, the DOJ fired the career attorneys responsible for enforcing clinic protections, dismissed pending FACE Act cases, and released a sham report attacking FACE Act enforcement. Blanche’s leadership of the DOJ threatens to effectively greenlight the terrorization of people seeking basic healthcare and shield extremists from accountability.
“While everyday families are struggling to pay for essentials, Trump and his administration are using taxpayer money to hand out massive payments to anti-abortion extremists,” Reproductive Freedom for All President and CEO Mini Timmaraju said in a statement. “Trump and Blanche have remade the DOJ into an institution that rewards violent criminals instead of holding them accountable—putting providers and patients at risk. They have once again flipped justice on its head. Voters won’t forget Republicans’ staggering corruption and warped priorities this November.”
The Trump administration’s attacks on the FACE Act threaten to erode the law’s protections and embolden anti-abortion extremists to escalate harassment, intimidation, and clinic blockades. Reproductive Freedom for All will continue fighting to defend the FACE Act, hold the Trump administration accountable for politicizing the Justice Department, and protect every person’s ability to access reproductive healthcare safely and without fear.
For over 55 years, Reproductive Freedom for All (formerly NARAL Pro-Choice America) has fought to protect and advance reproductive freedom at the federal and state levels—including access to abortion care, birth control, pregnancy and post-partum care, and paid family leave—for everybody. Reproductive Freedom for All is powered by its more than 4.5 million members from every state and congressional district in the country, representing the 8 in 10 Americans who support legal abortion.
Trump Administration’s Proposed Rollbacks Open Door for Dangerous Individuals To Obtain Firearms and Make it Harder to Hold Bad Actors in Firearms Industry Accountable
Governor Takes Immediate Action to Preserve Public Safety by Prioritizing State Police Inspections of Firearms Dealers Linked to Crime and Expanding Scope of Interstate Task Force on Illegal Guns
Governor Will Explore Legislative Actions to Require In-Person Sale of Firearms
State Launches Public Awareness Campaign Targeting Gun Dealers to Remind Them of New York State Laws
Note: The Republican opponent for New York Governor, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, opposed Governor Hochul’s gun safety regulations after the Trump Supreme Court overturned the state’s century-old gun law, and said he wanted to ease access to gun licenses and people should be able to carry guns into religious centers. Governor Hochul, during her term, has worked to reduce the number of guns imported into the state from states with lax gun laws, joining a regional consortium. Trump Administration – and his Attorney General designee Todd Blanche – have declared their love of a Second Amendment without any restrictions or regulation despite the United States having the highest rate of gun violence in the world. An average of 117 to 122 people die from gun-related injuries each day in the United States, according to recent data from the Pew Research Center and public health tracking, a rate that is 26 times higher than peer “developed” countries. This total includes suicides, homicides, accidents, and law enforcement actions.–Karen Rubin/editor@news-photos-features.com
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced actions in response to the Trump Administration’s proposed rollbacks that would make sweeping and dangerous changes to federal firearms regulations. Earlier this year, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) announced changes to more than 30 rules that will make it easier for dangerous individuals to obtain firearms and harder to hold bad actors in the firearms industry accountable. In response, New York State is taking action by increasing enforcement and education and exploring legislative changes that will blunt the effect of many of these changes and preserve public safety.
“Time and time again, we see the Trump Administration concede to the gun lobby, and these rollbacks are yet another giveaway that will have devastating and dangerous effects across the country,” Governor Hochul said.“ While the federal government paves the way for increased firearm trafficking and putting guns in the hands of those who should not have them, New York State is taking action to blunt their efforts by bolstering our nation-leading gun laws and committing to closing the loopholes that put lives in jeopardy.”
Firearm dealers operating in New York must obtain licensure at the federal and state levels, but action against licensees happens almost exclusively at the federal level. The ATF’s proposed rollbacks are a clear abdication of their responsibility to hold bad actors accountable and keep firearms out of the hands of dangerous individuals, requiring states to increase their enforcement against bad actors.
Governor Hochul announced the following actions alongside the New York State Police and members of New York’s gun safety coalition, including representatives from Everytown for Gun Safety, Moms Demand Action, Giffords, Brady United and New Yorkers Against Gun Violence:
Immediate Actions
Prioritizing State Police Inspections of all Firearms Dealers who are Linked to Crime Guns
New York will step up oversight and enforcement to ensure that its state-licensed dealers are complying with the rigorous standards imposed by law. NYSP will prioritize onsite inspections of all dealers who are determined to be the source of crime guns and will work with the Office of the Attorney General to increase enforcement on dealers who are repeatedly traced to crime guns when appropriate.
Expanding the Scope of the Interstate Task Force on Illegal Guns
Originally convened by Governor Hochul in 2022, New York’s Interstate Task Force on Illegal Guns includes local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and Vermont. The scope of this Task Force will expand to combine resources, share information, and develop strategies to combat increased public safety threats. Governor Hochul has directed Task Force members to reconvene to develop a coordinated interstate response to the ATF rollbacks and commit to regular information sharing related to crime guns located in one state that were purchased in another state.
Launching a Public Education Campaign Targeted at Firearm Dealers
New York State is launching a public awareness campaign and increased enforcement operation targeted specifically at gun dealers to remind them that many of New York’s strong laws remain in effect notwithstanding the federal regulations and must be followed despite the federal rollbacks. The campaign, which will feature direct mailers and emails to firearm dealers and firearm licensing officials, will focus on ATF rollbacks that state law prevents from having practical effect. This will be developed by the Division of Criminal Justice Services in close coordination with the New York State Police.
Legislative Actions
Requiring the In-Person Sale of Firearms
The ATF rule changes would allow for online sales of firearms. At the start of the next legislative session, Governor Hochul plans on introducing legislation to amend the penal law to require in-person sale of firearms. This law change would align firearm sales with ammunition sales, which are required to be done in-person.
Since taking office, Governor Hochul has committed more than $4 billion to public safety initiatives and doubled funding to combat gun violence in New York communities. Governor Hochul also partnered with 11 other states to intercept weapons along the I-95 corridor, enhance Red Flag Laws to keep guns away from individuals that are a risk to themselves and others, and strengthened New York’s concealed carry laws in response to the Supreme Court’s reckless Bruen decision. As part of the FY 27 Enacted Budget, Governor Hochul sustained record-level investments in prevention, intervention and enforcement, including addressing emerging threats as 3-D printed guns and DIY machine guns.
“Here in New York, I’ve been laser focused on this since I was elected back in 2022,” Governor Hochul stated. “Top priority. Crime was off the charts back then. I said, “It is unsustainable. We cannot keep this, this violence in our streets, the bloodshed, it has to stop. Today.” We now have gun violence at an all-time low in New York State. All-time low. It’s not an accident. It’s about investments in public safety and police, historic investments. Smart, targeted law enforcement — seizing illegal guns at record rates, going after emerging threats like those 3D-printed ghost guns. We banned those. We banned those. You know what we also did in our budget? We also banned the sale of the 3D printers in the state of New York, so even if you wanted to make your kitchen table into a munitions factory, you can’t do that anymore without facing down the law of the State of New York. Okay? So that was just done a couple months ago.
“But also, I believe one of the reasons we’re safe is because we’ve made investments and support our advocates in the streets…
“New Yorkers are safer today, more than they were just a few short years ago. But I’m not going to let the rogue cops in Washington undermine our progress.
“My administration will make sure our laws are enforced, and today, I’m announcing that New York State Police will ramp up on-site inspections at all gun dealers — you are on notice — that are linked to firearms and recovered at a crime…
“A background check is everything, it’s so critical. Also, mental health screening — we need to know. There’s people who should not have a gun in their hands, and the federal government doesn’t give a damn. But we do, we do. So you’re not going to be able to give someone a gun, sell a gun to someone without a mental health screening, because you’re going to be in for a rude awakening. This is New York. Welcome to a state that actually likes keeping people alive. We like keeping people alive in this state. So if you don’t follow our laws, oh, boy, consequences. Our police will work directly with our Attorney General, Tish James, and our District Attorneys to shut you down…Follow the laws or we’re shutting you down. And we’re not stopping at our own state borders. No, in New York, 80 percent of the guns recovered at crime scenes originate in other states — 80 percent, 80 percent. So to help fill the void, what I’m going to do is reconvene our Interstate Task Force on illegal guns,” Hochul said.
State Senator Zellnor Myrie said, “As the federal government rolls back common-sense public safety measures, New York is stepping up to protect our communities. I was proud to write the first state law in the nation taking on reckless and irresponsible gun dealers, and today’s actions build on our work to hold bad actors accountable. We will always put safe streets, subways, schools and neighborhoods ahead of the gun industry’s profits.”
Assemblymember Michaelle C. Solages said, “Our safety should never be compromised, especially not because of weakened federal oversight. As Washington rolls back basic and commonsense firearm regulations, New York is stepping up to protect our communities and to keep guns out of the hands of those who pose a danger. These actions will reinforce our state’s longstanding commitment to preventing gun violence while at the same time respecting responsible gun ownership. I am grateful to Governor Hochul for being clear-eyed and proactive on this issue.”
Assemblymember Monique Chandler-Waterman said, “As the Co-chair of the Subcommittee on Anti-Gun Violence of the NYS BPHA Caucus I stand with my colleagues along with the Governor to do all we can to advance gun safety legislation. We will not stand idle while the federal government rolls back common sense gun safety law. We will continue in the effort to keep our communities safe by keeping illegal guns off the streets, increasing interstate partnership, enforcement, and the education on best gun safety practices. In addition we will continue to advocate for more investments in wrap around services for our youth and families. That includes expanding access to safe spaces like Community Center Concepts in schools, afterschool programs, and stronger support for survivors. We understand that public safety requires common sense legislation and investments in prevention through youth programs, community spaces, and services that help survivors heal and rebuild.”
Senior Firearms Industry Advisor at Everytown for Gun Safety and Former Associate Assistant Director of Field Operations at the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms and Explosives Marianna Mitchem said, “These changes proposed by the ATF prioritize gun industry profits over human lives. They will exacerbate our national gun violence epidemic and undermine public safety in communities across New York State. I want to thank Governor Hochul for the steps New York is taking to protect its communities from gun trafficking and I want to encourage all local and state leaders to step up and follow her example. It is deeply disappointing that the agency I dedicated my career to has decided to cater to the gun industry rather than properly regulate it. But I am hopeful that with actions like those announced today, our communities will not be the ultimate victims of this Administration’s dangerous decisions.”
GIFFORDS Executive Director Emma Brown said, “The Trump administration says it’s tough on crime, but its record says otherwise. They are de-funding law enforcement, dismantling commonsense gun safety rules, and making our communities less safe. With these ATF rule changes, the administration’s actions threaten to undermine years of progress in reducing gun violence, meaning it’s more important than ever for state leaders to take bold action and fight to protect public safety. We’re grateful to Governor Hochul for her continued leadership on public safety, and her continuing the fight to keep New Yorkers safe.”
New Yorkers Against Gun Violence Executive Director Rebecca Fischer said, “At a time when the ATF is rolling back critical gun safety regulations that help prevent illegal gun trafficking and keep firearms out of dangerous hands, Governor Hochul is making it clear that New York will not lower its standards. While Washington weakens protections, New York is strengthening them. These proactive actions will help protect New Yorkers, reinforce our nation’s strongest gun safety laws, and send a clear message that public safety comes before politics. New York has proven that strong gun safety laws save lives, and we’re proud to stand with Governor Hochul as she continues to lead the nation in preventing gun violence.”
Brady: United Against Gun Violence President Kris Brown said, “The proposed changes to the ATF will categorically put communities across the country in danger. They are not technical adjustments — they are sweeping structural changes that will reshape how guns are bought and sold in America, a country where gun violence is the number one killer of kids. Rolling back common-sense gun violence prevention measures will make it easier for prohibited purchasers to obtain guns, harder for law enforcement to solve and prosecute gun crimes, and increase the likelihood for ‘mass casualty events.’ We cannot stand idly by and let this happen. We thank Governor Hochul for taking action with us to prevent fallout from these proposed changes and to keep New York communities safe.”
Bronx District Attorney Darcel Clark said, “I commend Governor Hochul for taking bold action to protect New Yorkers from gun violence. The proposed changes to federal firearm regulations threaten the progress our state has made in keeping our communities safe. Allowing firearms to be sold online without requiring an in-person transaction undermines responsible gun safety measures and puts lives at risk. I support the Governor’s effort to codify the requirement for in-person firearm sales into New York State law. In the Bronx, we know all too well the pain and devastation that has struck so many families. Just last weekend, an innocent 12-year-old child was tragically killed after being caught in the crossfire. We must continue advancing thoughtful, commonsense legislation that strengthens public safety, protects our neighborhoods, and helps prevent more families from experiencing trauma and loss from gun violence.”
Richmond County District Attorney Michael McMahon said, “At a time when Staten Island and New York City have witnessed historic decreases in homicides and acts of gun violence, the federal government’s decision to roll back firearm safety regulations is the wrong decision at the wrong time and needlessly jeopardizes public safety. These sweeping changes would weaken background checks, make it easier for dangerous individuals to obtain and traffic deadly firearms, and undermine the progress we have made in the fight against gun violence. Simply put, the ATF’s proposed rollbacks are bad for public safety and for the communities my office is tasked with protecting, and I commend Governor Hochul for her swift efforts to counteract these dangerous policies and protect New Yorkers across our State from the deadly scourge of gun violence.”
Manhattan Borough President Brad Hoylman-Sigal said, “I’m extremely grateful to Governor Hochul for her plan to stop the flow of illegal guns into New York through the infamous ‘Iron Pipeline.’ While Donald Trump is making it easier for trafficked weapons to hit the streets of New York City, Governor Hochul is fighting back at the state level. The Governor will blunt the impact of Trump’s dangerous changes to our gun laws at the federal level by prioritizing State Police inspections of all firearms dealers linked to crime guns, expanding the scope of the Interstate Task Force on Illegal Guns, aligning requirements for firearm background checks with ammunition requirements, and exploring a number of legislative fixes in Albany. The result will be a safer Manhattan and New York City.”
Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson said, “Gun violence and the proliferation of guns in our neighborhoods is a public health crisis that is affecting communities across our state that requires our immediate action and attention. Every day, families in the Bronx are forced to confront unimaginable grief, and far too many of our young people are growing up in fear instead of opportunity. Despite this White House administration’s attempts to roll back progress, I am grateful to Governor Hochul for her leadership and commitment to keeping our streets safe. Together, we must continue fighting to protect our children, support impacted families, and ensure that every youth in our city can thrive without the shadow of gun violence.”
Earlier this year, Governor Kathy Hochul launched a statewide public service announcement (PSA) campaign to promote secure firearm storage and raise awareness about safe storage options and how to prevent firearm misuse. Led by the New York State Office of Gun Violence Prevention (OGVP) within the Division of Criminal Justice Services and developed in partnership with Brady: United Against Gun Violence and the Ad Council, the campaign is part of New York’s comprehensive approach to strengthening public safety and reducing firearm deaths and injuries.
Biden-era gun regulations, instituted when gun violence hit new peaks during the coronavirus pandemic, as well as Hochul’s efforts to reduce gun violence have been successful.
“New York continues to make historic progress reducing gun violence and making our communities safer,” Governor Hochul said. “At the same time, we know too many firearm tragedies happen in homes and involve family members, children and loved ones. This public education campaign will empower gun owners with information and resources on how to securely store their firearms, helping protect their families and prevent needless injuries and deaths.”
Final Rules Outline How Social Media Companies Should Confirm Users’ Age to Stop Addictive Feeds and Nighttime Notifications for Children
Furthers Governor’s Nation-Leading Work To Restrict Addictive Feeds, Create Safeguards Against Harmful AI Companions, Ban Smartphones in Schools, Enact Social Media Warning Labels, and Protect Kids from Predatory Behavior Online
New York is Ranked First in the Nation for Technology Laws Keeping Kids Safe Online
Governor Kathy Hochul and Attorney General Letitia James discuss final rules on how social media companies must restrict addictive features on their platforms to comply with the Stop Addictive Feeds Exploitation (SAFE) for Kids Act and protect children’s mental health. (Don Pollard/Office of Governor Kathy Hochul)
Governor Kathy Hochul and Attorney General Letitia James announced the release of final rules on how social media companies must restrict addictive features on their platforms to comply with the Stop Addictive Feeds Exploitation (SAFE) for Kids Act and protect children’s mental health. New York’s pioneering SAFE for Kids Act requires social media companies to restrict algorithmically personalized feeds and nighttime notifications for users under the age of 18 unless they obtain parental consent.
Algorithmic feeds and nighttime notifications are tied to depression, anxiety, eating and sleep disorders, and other mental health issues among children and teenagers. The rules released today establish criteria to clarify which platforms are subject to the SAFE for Kids requirements and outline standards to determine users’ age and obtain parental consent. This announcement furthers Governor Hochul’s nation-leading work to restrict addictive feeds, create safeguards against harmful AI companions, ban smartphones in schools, enact social media warning labels, and protect kids from predatory behavior online.
“When I came into office, our children were in the throes of a full-blown mental health crisis, and as New York’s first mom Governor, I felt a moral imperative to act,” Governor Hochul said. “Today, we’re sending a clear message: our kids’ mental health isn’t for sale. We promised action and the SAFE for Kids Act is delivering by ensuring that any platform that targets our children with addictive feeds will face legal consequences. Instead of clicking and scrolling, our kids will be learning and growing.”
Attorney General Letitia James said, “The SAFE for Kids Act leads the nation in keeping our children safe online and protecting youth from the devastating effects of unchecked social media. These rules set standards for age verification and parental control to ensure tech companies are doing their part to keep kids safe on their platforms. Young people are particularly vulnerable to addictive social media features, and my office is committed to protecting all New Yorkers from potentially harmful technologies and companies that try to take advantage of them.”
Algorithmically personalized feeds, or addictive feeds, recommend or personalize content for users in an endless stream based on data that the platform gathers about the user. They are designed to encourage a user to continue to use and return to a platform. Content displayed in addictive feeds is often from accounts that a user has not selected, does not follow, and is often displayed out of chronological order.
Addictive feeds are known to drive unhealthy levels of social media use in minors that can affect their mental health. Research shows that children as young as 10 to 14 years old experience addictive use of social media, and the more time children spend on social media, the more likely they are to experience negative mental health outcomes such as depression, anxiety, and eating and sleep disorders.
The SAFE for Kids Act addresses these mental health concerns for children by requiring social media companies to restrict addictive feeds for users under 18. Instead of the default algorithmically personalized feeds designed to keep young people on the platform, users under 18 will only be shown content from other accounts they follow or otherwise select in a set sequence, such as chronological order, unless they get parental consent for an addictive feed. Users cannot be cut off from the platform simply because they either do not want or do not have parental consent for an addictive feed. Instead, all users will still be able to access all the same content they can access now. The law also prohibits social media platforms from sending notifications to users under 18 from 12 a.m. to 6 a.m. without parental consent.
Signed into law by Governor Hochul in June 2024, the SAFE for Kids Act authorized the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) to promulgate rules on how companies should comply with the law before the statute goes into effect, including rules that set industry standards for determining a user’s age and securing parental consent. The OAG issued an advanced notice of proposed rulemaking on August 1, 2024, and provided the public with a 60-day period to submit comments. The proposed rules were made public for review on September 15, 2025. The OAG incorporated public input, industry research, and its significant experience to inform the proposed and final rules.
Age Assurance
Under the law and regulations, social media companies must determine that a given user is an adult before providing them with algorithmic feeds and/or nighttime notifications. Companies may confirm a user’s age using any methods that meet accuracy benchmarks and protect users’ data as set forth in the regulations. Companies can use options such as:
Requesting an uploaded image or video; or
Verifying a user’s email address or phone number to cross-check other information that reflects a user’s age.
Social media companies must offer at least one alternative method for age assurance besides providing a government-issued ID.
Any information used to determine age or obtain parental consent must not be used for any other purpose and must be deleted or de-identified immediately after its intended use. Social media companies must use only the minimum amount of data necessary to confirm a user’s age.
Minor users must have an option to update their age status on the platform when they turn 18.
Social media companies must choose an age assurance method with a high accuracy rate, conduct annual testing, and retain the results of the testing for a minimum of 5 years.
Parental Consent
Minors must affirmatively seek access to prohibited features and must consent to their parent being notified. Any parent who wants to grant consent must go through age assurance.
The platform may not block a minor user from generally accessing the platform or its content through, for example, searches, simply because they or their parent has refused to consent.
Parents and minors must also have the option to withdraw their consent at any time.
The SAFE for Kids Act and rules apply to “Addictive Online Platforms,” defined as platforms that display user-generated content and have users who spend at least 20 percent of their time on the platform’s addictive feeds measured over a six-month period.
The full final rules can be found on OAG’s website.The final rules will be published in the State Register on July 29, 2026. The SAFE for Kids Act goes into effect 180 days later, on January 25, 2027.
For companies that violate the SAFE for Kids Act, the law authorizes OAG to bring an action to stop violations as well as to seek civil penalties of up to $5,000 per violation, among other remedies.
State Senator Andrew Gounardes said, “I passed this law for a simple reason: kids’ safety should come before Big Tech’s profits. The SAFE For Kids Act protects children from addictive algorithms that force-feed them content they don’t want and put their mental health at risk. These new regulations bring the law to life by keeping young people safe while protecting New Yorkers’ online privacy and holding social media corporations accountable. Thanks to Attorney General James for her crucial work to get this done. Together, we’re building a safer, better internet for all New Yorkers.”
Assemblymember Nily Rozic said, “As a mother and legislator, keeping our kids safe is one of my highest priorities. The final SAFE for Kids rules are a major step toward holding social media platforms accountable and protecting children from harmful and addictive features. I’m grateful to Governor Hochul and Attorney General James for their leadership and for ensuring that New York continues to lead the way in putting families first.”
Common Sense Media Founder and CEO James P. Steyer said, “We applaud Attorney General Letitia James and her team for the tremendous work that went into developing the final regulations to implement the SAFE for Kids Act. The SAFE for Kids Act, and these new final rules to implement and enforce it, has the potential to be a transformative step forward in protecting children from the addictive design features of social media. We are deeply grateful for the leadership of Governor Kathy Hochul, Attorney General James, and the state lawmakers who championed this landmark law. New York is setting a national standard for protecting kids online by focusing on curbing addictive social media feeds and limiting late-night notifications that disrupt children’s sleep and well-being. There is more work to do to protect kids from the risks of AI and social media, but this law and its final rules are groundbreaking.”
Mothers Against Media Addiction (MAMA) Founder and Executive Director Julie Scelfo said, “New York’s SAFE for Kids Act is the nation’s strongest legislation to protect children online by ensuring they are not exposed to the addictive algorithms running rampant on social media platforms. These new rules are an important and essential step in the enforcement of this landmark legislation and provide a pathway for other states to follow. MAMA is grateful to Attorney General James and her team for their careful and trailblazing efforts. By tackling addictive and harmful feeds head-on, New York is prioritizing the safety and well-being of our children over Big Tech’s bottom line.”
This announcement builds on Governor Hochul’s ongoing efforts to address the youth mental health crisis statewide and help keep kids safe online. This work has established New York as a global leader in securing a safer online world for children, and as of this year New York is ranked number one in the U.S. for laws that keep kids safe online. In addition to the SAFE for Kids Act, initiatives include:
The Child Data Protection Act that prevents online operators from collecting and monetizing children’s data without informed consent.
AI Companion legislation which set first-in-the-nation safeguards, diverting user conversations about self-harm to mental health resources and interrupting unhealthy addictive behaviors.
The Governor also outlawed AI-Generated Child Sexual Abuse Material.
The Unplug and Play Agenda which helps encourage the healthy socialization and child development by funding social infrastructure, physical sites like playgrounds, community centers, and pools, and expanded youth programming.
New York’s Distraction Free Learning Policy, requiring statewide, bell-to-bell restrictions on smartphones in K-12 schools, which is already resulting in greater academic achievement, improved student wellbeing, and safer school environments for students.
The Social Media Warning Labels bill that will require social media companies to post warnings about the platform’s potential impact on mental health.
The Safe by Design Act, which protects kids from predatory behavior online and defaults them to the highest privacy settings.
Teen Mental Health First Aid training that equips youth with skills to recognize common signs and symptoms of mental health and substance use challenges and know how to ask for help.
Youth Safe Spaces, where trusted community organizations provide supportive, non-judgmental environments where young people can access mental wellness resources, foster positive peer relationships, and engage in non-clinical activities.
The Power Down, Speak Up public awareness campaign launched by the NYS Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence (OPDV) that helps to empower young people statewide to recognize and respond to online abuse while equipping parents, educators, and law enforcement with tools to help keep youth safe online.
OPDV’s Technology-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence (TFGBV) Training, which has already trained more than 4,000 youth, parents, educators, and law enforcement professionals on preventing and responding to online abuse.
Governor Hochul hosts a roundtable meeting in the Finger Lakes with local officials and business leaders discussing year moratorium on new data centers. (Darren McGee/ Office of Governor Kathy Hochul)
Governor Kathy Hochul today held a roundtable with state, business and local leaders from the Finger Lakes Region to highlight her Executive Order that creates the nation’s first moratorium on new hyperscale data centers, establishing the strongest standards for data center development and creating a blueprint to support localities. The Governor is temporarily pausing State environmental permits for up to one year in order to build a nation-leading regulatory framework that protects ratepayers, the environment, the energy grid and communities across the state.
“New Yorkers’ well-being and convenience always comes first — that’s why we’re not letting residents foot the bill while data centers come in, plant the seeds and benefit from our localities,” Governor Hochul said. “This one year pause is centered around an action plan to protect ratepayers from rising utility costs, determine the best approach for the environment and to ensure incoming partners are paying into our already-overwhelmed energy grid. We’re developing a framework that works for our communities, not against them.”
Earlier this year, the Governor directed the Department of Public Service (DPS) to begin the Energize NY proceeding, which will require data centers to either pay more for their energy or supply their own, allowing the state to keep energy more affordable for New Yorkers. As part of that proceeding, the Governor is now also directing DPS to develop a Generic Environmental Impact Statement (GEIS) for data centers to ensure new data centers coming online are being held to consistent standards. During the development of this GEIS, which will take up to a year, a moratorium will be in place and the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) will not issue any discretionary permits not already deemed complete. The state will use the GEIS to assess the potential environmental impacts of the construction and operation of data centers in the state, including their effect on energy demand, water use and quality, and air quality. Once the State finalizes these standards, the moratorium will be lifted, allowing new data center projects to proceed as long as they follow state, zoning code and other local approvals.
The Governor also directed Empire State Development (ESD) to issue a Community Investment Framework (CIF) within 60 days, which will provide clear guidance to local entities to help them negotiate community benefits as part of any large-scale data center deal, including local infrastructure improvements, child care investments, and direct financial support for their community. The CIF will also establish frameworks that provide organized labor a seat at the table and prioritize prevailing wage standards and project labor agreements for data center construction, local hiring, apprenticeships and workforce development to maximize economic benefits. This framework will additionally include a formula to help communities assess where to begin investment negotiations. An outline of the CIF is currently available onESD’s website, and the public is encouraged to submit feedback.
Additionally, the Governor is directing DPS to consider creating a New York Grid Acceleration Fund to require data centers to invest in the state’s aging grid infrastructure and energy needs so all New Yorkers benefit from responsible development. The fund could support the procurement of new clean energy supply and establishment of an insurance pool to which developers may need to contribute to protect against speculative large loads that create uncertainty and increase costs. DPS will also consider approaches to require data centers to fund new clean electric generation dedicated to their operations, including but not limited to customer-sited distributed energy resources and battery storage.
Finally, Governor Hochul is pursuing legislation to repeal sales tax exemptions for massive data centers across the state.
State Senator Jeremy Cooney said, “Governor Hochul’s willingness to listen on data centers sets the precedent that New York’s communities will always come first. This timeline allows the proper framework to be laid for a safe integration of this new technology — protecting ratepayers, the environment, our energy grid, and unlocking opportunities for labor leaders. I will continue to support the Governor’s commitment to ensuring sensible policies surrounding data centers in New York.”
Monroe County Executive Adam J. Bello said, “Any economic development project, including data centers, must be a net positive for our community, and we have to protect residents from rising electrical bills. Because the pace of technological demand is moving faster than our physical infrastructure, we have to take a thoughtful, deliberate and prudent approach. Thanks to Governor Hochul for her leadership on this issue and for engaging local stakeholders in the conversation.”
Greater Rochester Chamber President and CEO Bob Duffy said, “New York State must remain an international leader in emerging technologies powering the 21st century economy — but it must do so responsibly. Thank you to Governor Kathy Hochul for her leadership in ensuring our state implements thoughtful, comprehensive policies that support all of its communal goals. By convening discussions like this and addressing implementation concerns prior to development, Governor Hochul is setting New York up to find a mutually beneficial path forward. We look forward to continued collaboration with leaders across the state to ensure that all voices are heard in this conversation and all New Yorkers benefit from these investments.”
Genesee County Legislature Chair Christian Yunker said, “I appreciate Governor Hochul taking the time to hear directly from communities that are on the front lines of economic development. This roundtable gives us an opportunity to share how data centers could impact communities. We have the opportunity to create jobs, strengthen local tax bases, and support long-term growth while addressing legitimate concerns. This is a healthy exercise.”
Since taking office, Governor Hochul has ensured New York is leading the nation in AI innovation and development. As part of her FY25 Budget, the Governor launched Empire AI, a nation-leading initiative to advance AI research for public good. This year, she launched the FutureWorks Commission to advise on policy and private sector actions to protect the security of workers while harnessing the economic benefits of AI for all New Yorkers. This blue ribbon Commission is composed of nation-leading experts, workers’ advocates, and business leaders, and will be charged with advising Governor Hochul on how to navigate the AI transition, so that the benefits of AI can be shared among New York’s families, workers and small businesses — not just large corporations.
Governor Hochul also implemented nation-leading safeguards to keep New Yorkers safe online and to ensure safe and responsible AI use in New York State. Initiatives include:
The SAFE for Kids Act and Child Data Protection Act that restrict addictive feeds for kids and prevent online operators from collecting and monetizing children’s data without informed consent.
AI Companion legislation which set first-in-the-nation safeguards, diverting user conversations about self-harm to mental health resources and interrupting unhealthy addictive behaviors. The Governor also outlawed AI-Generated Child Sexual Abuse Material.
The recently signed Warning Labels bill that will require social media companies post warnings about the platform’s potential impact on mental health.
AI Deceptive Practices Act, which enhances protections against unauthorized use of likeness/voice and the unauthorized dissemination of intimate images.
This year, the Governor’s Safe by Design Act was enacted in the FY27 State Budget. Safe by Design ensures that parental controls for kids are set at the highest protections on common social and gaming platforms, which means that non-connections above the age of 18 cannot privately communicate with kids, view their full profile, or tag them in content. Location settings will also be turned off by default, and children under 13 must receive parental approval for new connections. It also disables certain AI chatbot features on online platforms for kids and parents must be able to set limits on children’s financial transactions on online gaming platforms and view their child’s transaction history. While many of these platforms have increased their security features for kids, in New York it is now the law, and cannot be relaxed by these platforms over time.
Additionally, Governor Hochul is creating a first-of-its kind Office of Digital Innovation, Governance, Integrity, and Trust (DIGIT). DIGIT will serve as a central, authoritative body for digital safety and technological governance, devising new approaches and ensuring consistent enforcement to keep New Yorkers safe online while protecting New York’s position as a state that values and invests in cutting-edge innovation. The DIGIT Office will first focus on regulating large frontier AI developers as outlined in the RAISE Act, enabling greater transparency into their safety measures and establishing a reporting mechanism for developers to report critical safety incidents. The effective date of the law is January 1, 2027.
Participants of today’s roundtable includes:
Commissioner Hope Knight, President & CEO, Empire State Development
State Senator Jeremy Cooney
County Executive Adam Bello, Monroe County
Christian Yunker, Managing Partner, CY Farms & Chair, Genesee County Legislature
Stephen Schultz, Town Supervisor, Town of Henrietta
Joshua Banda, Student, Monroe Community College
Robert “Bob” Duffy, President & CEO, Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce
Kevin Ellis, CEO, Upstate Niagara Dairy Co-op
Dr. Barbara Grosh, Resident, Town of Penfield
Rachel Sherman, Board Member, Rush-Henrietta Board of Education & Executive Director, Wilson Foundation
Proposals Eligible for $58 Million in Federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits, $10 Million in State Low-Income Housing Tax Credits, and More Than $200 Million in HCR Subsidies
Governor Kathy Hochul announced proposals are now being accepted for the State’s annual 9% Low-Income Housing Tax Credit awards, which will make available up to $58 million in 9% Federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC), $10 million in New York State Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (SLIHC) and more than $200 million in State Capital subsidy loan programs. The program, administered by New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR), will accept proposals through September 10, 2026.
“Families across New York deserve safe, sustainable, affordable housing, and my administration is committed to providing it,” Governor Hochul said. “These $270 million in targeted investments will be a critical part of our five-year Housing Plan and go hand-in-glove with our affordability agenda, allowing developers to build and preserve affordable housing faster and more efficiently in every corner of the state. The resulting projects will transform neighborhoods, lower costs for New Yorkers and strengthen our communities.”
The 9% LIHTC Request for Proposals, issued once a year, is a highly competitive process through which HCR seeks proposals for the creation and preservation of high-quality affordable housing throughout the State. It is a central component of Governor Hochul’s $25 billion comprehensive five-year Housing Plan to create or preserve more than 100,000 affordable homes across New York, including 10,000 with support services for vulnerable populations.
Eligible applicants proposing affordable multifamily housing projects can apply for the 9% LIHTC; SLIHC; and subsidy loan financing from the Low-Income Housing Trust Fund Program, Rural and Urban Community Investment Fund, Supportive Housing Opportunity Program, Public Housing Preservation Program, Middle Income Housing Program, Senior Housing Program and LGBTQ+ Affirming Senior Program, HOME Program, New Construction Program, Clean Energy Initiative Program and Multifamily Solar Fund.
New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said, “Projects funded through this year’s 9% RFP will put $270 million in tax credits and Capital subsidies to work expanding housing opportunities for families and individuals, revitalizing neighborhoods, enhancing local economic development initiatives, and making New York a place where people can live independently and affordably in the communities they choose. The Low-Income Housing Tax Credit Program and our Capital subsidies are among the most effective tools we have to create the opportunities New Yorkers need. Thanks to Governor Hochul’s laser focus on housing affordability and our development partners, these targeted investments will pave the way for about 1,800 apartments and bring us closer to the goals of the Housing Plan that is on its way to creating and preserving 100,000 affordable homes across the State.”
The agency’s RFP page includes all relevant information, including available resources, project eligibility, and submission requirements.
On or before July 16, HCR will also post an updated RFP Presentation providing detailed guidance, explaining application changes, and highlighting common errors.
All applicants are required to participate in an HCR Technical Assistance session within 12 months of the application due date.
Governor Hochul’s Housing Agenda
Governor Hochul is dedicated to addressing New York’s housing crisis and making the State more affordable and livable for all New Yorkers. Since FY23, the Governor has worked to increase housing supply to make housing more affordable by launching a $25 billion five-year comprehensive Housing Plan, enacted the most significant housing deal in decades and implemented new protections for renters and homeowners. Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, HCR has created new programs that jumpstart development of affordable and mixed-income homes for both renters and homebuyers. These include the Pro-Housing Community Program, which allows certified localities exclusive access to up to $750 million in discretionary State funding. More than 420 communities throughout the state have been certified Pro-Housing.
Governor Hochul’s “Let Them Build” agenda will speed up housing and infrastructure development while lowering costs through a series of landmark reforms. Common-sense changes to New York’s Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA) in the FY 2027 Enacted Budget as well as executive actions will expedite critical categories of projects that have been consistently found to not have significant environmental impacts, but for too long have been caught up in red tape and subject to lengthy delays.
The enacted FY27 Budget completes the Governor’s current five-year Housing Plan to create or preserve 100,000 affordable homes statewide, including 10,000 with support services for vulnerable populations plus the electrification of an additional 50,000 homes. More than 81,000 affordable homes have been created or preserved to date. The Budget also invests $250 million in capital funding to accelerate the construction of thousands of new affordable homes. The enacted FY27 budget also further reinforces critical protections for tenants and homeowners.
Governor Kathy Hochul announced that the New York Power Authority (NYPA) approved $13 million in funding to support clean energy workforce development across New York State. The funding, approved by the NYPA Board of Trustees, includes $3 million to be directed to six workforce development programs that will equip more than 450 New Yorkers with the training, job placement resources and technical skills needed for careers in New York’s growing clean energy economy. The awards also include $10 million will support the New York State Department of Labor’s (NYSDOL) expanded training and retraining initiatives to prepare workers for employment in clean energy careers.
“Our clean energy future depends on the people who will build it, and we’re committed to preparing them for the good‑paying careers of tomorrow,” Governor Hochul said. “This $13 million investment will open doors for New Yorkers, expanding access to valuable training, strengthening workforce pathways and helping communities across the state benefit from the momentum fueling our clean energy economy.”
New York is leading the nation in developing a green economy, with nearly 185,000 clean energy jobs already created. Building further on that statewide progress, the NYPA Board of Trustees approved funding awards to the following organizations and institutions:
Energy Infrastructure Partners (EIP) – $520,000: EIP designs and delivers energy efficiency and clean energy programs for utilities and public agencies. The funding will support building operations and energy efficiency training for staff members of the Settlement House, a NYC based nonprofit.
Laborers’ International Union of North America (LiUNA) Local 17 – $500,000: LiUNA Local 17 in the Hudson Valley will use the funding to strengthen pre-apprenticeship pathways in the construction trades, offering foundational training and support services to prepare participants for union careers.
Laborers’ International Union of North America (LiUNA) Local 210 – $540,000: LiUNA Local 17 in Buffalo will use the funding to support a pre‑apprenticeship program that provides certification‑based training for participants.
Both LiUNA programs build on proven models to expand access to skilled labor opportunities.
Last year, NYPA allocated more than $1 million in funding support to LiUNA’s existing workforce training initiative, stimulating the expansion of its pre-apprenticeship program, which prepares members of disadvantaged communities for careers as union construction craft laborers in Buffalo, the Hudson Valley and the Capital Region.
Northland Workforce Training Center – $500,000: Northland Workforce Training Center provides workforce training and career pathways for Western New Yorkers pursuing jobs in advanced manufacturing and energy. The funding will support training for participants in HVAC and building maintenance certificate programs at the Center’s new Clean Tech Lab, along with wraparound services including career coaching, transportation assistance and job placement support.
NYPA has supported Northland since its inception, initially providing $15 million in funding to support its development in 2016. In 2023, NYPA awarded Northland more than $1.1 million to support the development of the center’s state-of-the-art auto tech lab, and donated a 2017 Chevy Volt, an electric vehicle (EV) charger and a mix of associated EV shop tools to Northland for use in its clean energy center.
Renaissance Technical Institute (RTI) – $500,000: RTI, a New York City-based nonprofit dedicated to empowering underserved communities through free vocational education and training, will train participants in energy‑efficient systems and electrification. NYPA, in collaboration with NYSDOL, previously allocated $500,000 in funding to RTI in East Harlem to support workforce programming and career development for young adults from under-resourced communities.
State University of New York (SUNY) Canton – $440,000: SUNY Canton will train students through credit‑bearing micro‑credentials in heat pumps, drone operations, and mapping and logistics. The initiative expands access to industry‑aligned clean‑energy training for Northern New York and disadvantaged communities, preparing graduates for high‑quality career opportunities in the clean‑energy sector.
Of the $10 million in funding awarded to NYSDOL approved by the NYPA Board of Trustees, $8 million will support the expansion and development of the Growing the Clean Energy Workforce Training Initiative, which provides grants to organizations for the development or expansion of training programs. The remaining $2 million will be allocated to the NYSDOL Renewable Energy Training Initiative (RETI) program, which supports inclusive clean‑energy workforce development by funding upskilling and reskilling for workers transitioning into clean‑energy roles and by providing essential wraparound services.
New York Power Authority Chairman John R. Koelmelsaid, “By supporting organizations that provide apprenticeships and technical training, NYPA is strengthening New York’s talent pipeline and expanding opportunities for workers in communities across the state to gain the skills needed for high‑demand jobs in the growing clean energy economy.”
New York Power Authority President and CEO Justin E. Driscoll said, “The $13 million in workforce investments will help ensure New Yorkers have the skills required to maintain and expand the state’s clean‑energy infrastructure. NYPA is doing more than simply providing funding; it is delivering real opportunities for New Yorkers by opening vital career pathways in the state’s rapidly growing energy sector.”
Connecting New Yorkers to Opportunities in Clean Energy
The Power Authority’s support for clean energy workforce training stems from a commitment of up to $25 million annually, as outlined in the 2023-24 Enacted State Budget, and largely supports the efforts of the New York State Department of Labor to connect workers to job opportunities in the clean energy economy. Many of the upskilling and training initiatives have a focus on serving those who are traditionally underrepresented, especially within disadvantaged communities.
NYPA actively engages with each community training organization to ensure skills training is matched with in-demand positions and participant success through supportive wraparound services. Additionally, the Power Authority advises on the classroom and hands-on technology curriculum.
Including this round of awards, NYPA has obligated more than $63 million for clean energy training programs, supporting thousands of trainees and more than 45 workforce training organizations statewide.
More information on the Power Authority’s support for clean energy training can be found on its workforce development webpage.
New York State Commissioner of Labor Roberta Reardon said, “Creating clean energy infrastructure is both necessary and an economic opportunity for our state, creating thousands of jobs and strengthening local economies. I applaud Governor Hochul’s commitment to New York’s clean energy future. The New York State Department of Labor stands ready to provide the training and resources necessary to ensure our workforce is prepared to support the state’s clean energy development.”
State Senator April N.M Baskin said, “When we invest in people, we strengthen our economy. These awards will help LiUNA Local 210 and the Northland Workforce Training Center prepare more Western New Yorkers for careers in the growing clean energy economy, opening the door to good-paying jobs while building the skilled workforce our region needs. I thank Governor Hochul and NYPA for continuing to invest in our workforce.”
The New York Power Authority is the largest state public power organization in the nation, operating 17 generating facilities and more than 1,550 circuit-miles of transmission lines. More than 80 percent of the electricity NYPA produces is clean renewable hydropower. NYPA finances its operations through the sale of bonds and revenues earned in large part through sales of electricity. For more information visit www.nypa.gov and follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and Substack.
Program Will Help Connect Workers to Opportunities in America’s Fastest Growing Semiconductor Ecosystem
New York Leading the Way in Addressing the National Skilled Worker Challenge, Moving To Prevent Projected Shortfalls Threatening the U.S. Chip Factory Revival
Governor Kathy Hochul announced the launch of the Semiconductor Manufacturing Workforce Training Incentive Program, designed to connect workforce training programs to careers in the state’s rapidly growing semiconductor industry sector. The new program, administered by Empire State Development, supports eligible semiconductor manufacturers and manufacturing businesses by offsetting the costs of training employees for high-demand manufacturing careers, helping companies build the skilled workforce needed to support continued industry growth across New York State.
“New York is making historic investments to become the nation’s premier destination for semiconductor manufacturing, and that means investing in people just as much as projects,” Governor Hochul said. “This new workforce training tax credit will help manufacturers develop the highly skilled workforce they need while creating new opportunities for New Yorkers to build careers in one of the world’s fastest-growing industries.”
The program supports employer-led training that addresses specific business needs, enhances employee skills, improves productivity and creates opportunities for career advancement. Eligible training may be provided directly by employers, third-party providers or New York State Registered Apprenticeship Programs. Tax credits can cover up to 75 percent of eligible training costs, including employee wages during training, curriculum development, instructor costs and qualifying wraparound services, up to $25,000 per employee receiving eligible training. Eligible semiconductor manufacturing businesses may receive up to $5 million in credits over the life of the program, while other eligible manufacturing businesses may receive up to $1 million.
To qualify, businesses must operate in New York State as eligible semiconductor manufacturing or manufacturing businesses, submit an approved workforce training plan before training begins, and demonstrate compliance with worker protection and environmental requirements. Applications are now being accepted through ESD. Additional program information, eligibility requirements and application materials are available here.
Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “A strong semiconductor ecosystem depends on a strong workforce. By helping employers invest in training, New York is ensuring businesses have access to the talent they need while creating pathways to high-quality manufacturing careers for New Yorkers. This program complements our broader strategy to grow the semiconductor industry and reinforce New York’s position as a global leader in advanced manufacturing.”
The new program demonstrates New York’s semiconductor leadership by directly addressing the national shortage of skilled workers threatening the resurgence of domestic chip manufacturing. Recent industry reports are forecasting a nationwide deficit of up to 157,000 skilled full-time semiconductor manufacturing workers by 2030. By providing state support to offset training costs and facilitate new hires, New York is answering the urgent call for industry and government to pool resources, ensuring that the industry has the workers it needs while empowering New Yorkers with accessible career opportunities in a fast-growing industry.
This also builds on Governor Hochul’s comprehensive strategy to grow New York’s semiconductor industry. To ensure New Yorkers are prepared for the thousands of high-paying jobs created by these investments, Governor Hochul is leading an ambitious statewide workforce development strategy. This effort is anchored by the $200 million ON-RAMP initiative, which is establishing four advanced manufacturing workforce centers across Upstate New York. This includes the flagship ON-RAMP facility on the Southside of Syracuse, a hub designed to provide critical skills training and wraparound services — such as childcare and transportation — to create accessible career pathways.
Governor Hochul celebrated a major milestone at Micron’s $100 billion semiconductor manufacturing campus in Central New York as workers poured the first concrete foundations. This major milestone was achieved less than six months after breaking ground and marks a pivotal turning point from site preparation to full vertical construction.
Semiconductors power everything from smartphones to satellites, and the sector is poised to generate revenues of $1 trillion globally by the end of the decade. The industry also brings an outsized economic impact for workers and families — 60 percent of semiconductor manufacturing jobs don’t require a four-year degree and pay more than 25 percent more than other advanced manufacturing sectors on average. With more than $126 billion in new investments announced since 2022, New York State is home to the nation’s fastest growing semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem. By the end of the decade, one in four U.S.-made chips will be produced within 350 miles of Upstate New York — more than any other region in the nation.
The Clinton Policy Institute is mobilizing public and private leaders to advance policies that strengthen democratic resilience and improve the lives of children and families
For more information on the Clinton Policy Institute, visit clintonpolicy.org
New York, NY — The Clinton Foundation today announced the launch of the Clinton Policy Institute (CPI), dedicated to improving the lives of children and families by developing, accelerating, and scaling common-sense policy solutions, especially at the state and local levels. At a time when rising costs, economic uncertainty, rapid technological change, and growing threats to democratic institutions are making it harder for families to get ahead, CPI offers a different path: bringing together leaders across the lines that divide us, to find practical, effective solutions that improve everyday life for millions of Americans.
CPI’s work draws on Secretary Hillary Rodham Clinton’s decades-long commitment to children and families, Dr. Chelsea Clinton’s deep expertise in public health policy and health systems, and an unmatched global network of world leaders, U.S. government officials, and advocates. This gives CPI a unique ability to reach the people who matter, and to forge the durable consensus that turns good ideas into lasting policy.
Grounded in the belief that it takes a village to give every child a fair shot, CPI’s work focuses on issues that are foundational to whether our children and families can flourish:
Children’s wellbeing – ensuring all children have equitable opportunities to grow, learn, and thrive.
Family economic security – helping families build financial stability, lower costs, and create pathways to opportunity.
Women and children’s health – protecting and expanding access to care that women, children, and families need, when they need it.
Democracy and civic resilience – strengthening the democratic institutions and civic infrastructure that families depend on to make government work for them.
The Clinton Policy Institute will be led by Chief Executive Officer Zayn Siddique, a policy leader with deep experience turning ambitious ideas for children and families into real results. As Principal Deputy Director of the Domestic Policy Council, Siddique led the development of the most comprehensive executive order to make child care and family care more affordable and accessible. He also led White House efforts to reform the student loan system, protect access to SNAP benefits, and develop the first-ever White House Blueprint for a Renters Bill of Rights. Jennifer Klein, former Assistant to the President and the Director of the White House Gender Policy Council, will serve as the Chair of the Clinton Policy Institute, building on her long history advancing women’s human rights, safety and security, health, and economic opportunity to guide CPI.
“Too many families are struggling with challenges that government should be helping to solve — and too many leaders have good ideas but lack the support to make them real,” said Siddique. “That’s the gap CPI exists to close. We’re already working with states on policies that are making a concrete difference: keeping phones out of classrooms so kids can learn, protecting children from the harms of social media and AI, protecting access to vaccines and improving health outcomes for mothers and babies, helping workers build wealth through employee ownership, and ensuring that the institutions families depend on still work for them. These aren’t partisan issues — they’re the things families actually need. And there are leaders across the country ready to act on them.”
This new initiative builds on President Clinton’s lifetime of work in public service to forge consensus and improve people’s lives, Secretary Clinton’s decades of work on children and families, and Dr. Clinton’s public health expertise. CPI’s work is focused on:
Identifying gaps in the policy landscape and elevating the ideas best positioned to fill them;
Developing original research, practical playbooks, and implementation guides that leaders can put to work;
Convening leaders across government, civil society, and the private sector to forge durable coalitions around the most promising solutions and build relationships over time;
Mobilizing trusted voices and providing technical assistance to state and local leaders ready to act;
Scaling state-level innovation into future federal policy solutions; and
Imagining a future that provides opportunity for all of America’s children and families.
CPI is the Foundation’s first new initiative in over a decade, and the first specifically dedicated to advancing domestic public policy. While expanding the Foundation’s work into a new arena, CPI represents a natural evolution of its mission: fostering collaboration, advancing practical solutions, and building partnerships that improve lives.
CPI joins other pathbreaking programs at the Clinton Foundation including the Clinton Global Initiative, which convenes global leaders to take action on the world’s most pressing challenges; the Clinton Presidential Center, which advances opportunity, civic engagement, and leadership; Too Small to Fail, which provides families with early language and learning opportunities; and the Overdose Response Network, which equips communities with evidence-based tools to prevent overdoses and save lives. The Foundation has also served as an incubator for global and national development organizations, including the Clinton Health Access Initiative, which has expanded access to lifesaving medicines for more than 21 million people worldwide; and the Alliance for a Healthier Generation, which has helped more than 31 million children lead healthier lives.
“I’ve been proud to work alongside Secretary Hillary Rodham Clinton over the years, and I’ve seen firsthand her unwavering commitment to improving the lives of children and families,” said Governor Kathy Hochul. “Every family should be able to raise healthy, safe, and successful children, and the government has a responsibility to help create conditions for them to thrive in. It excites me to know that Secretary Clinton is bringing that lifelong commitment to the Clinton Policy Institute, which is helping leaders share practical, proven solutions that strengthen communities and give every child the opportunity to succeed.”
“The Clinton Policy Institute was founded with a simple yet urgent mission: help public leaders turn proven ideas into better outcomes for the people they serve,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “CPI will play a vital role in helping public servants of all regions, parties, and levels of government learn from one another, scale what works, and build the partnerships they need to put good policy into practice.”
“The Clinton Policy Institute’s commitment to restoring confidence in vaccines and evidence-based public health policies will help protect children, strengthen communities, and reinforce public trust in science,” said Dr. Anthony Fauci. “Vaccines remain one of the most effective public health tools ever developed inpreventing disease, saving lives, and protecting communities. Ensuring that families have access to accurate scientific information and routine immunizations requires the sustained leadership, trusted partnerships, and sound public policy that CPI is building.”
“Secretary Clinton has long made the case that strong families – and a strong economy – depend on accessible and affordable care,” said Ai-jen Poo. “The Clinton Policy Institute is bringing leaders together across sectors to develop and implement effective policies to ensure that families, workers, and the caregivers they depend on have the support they need to not only survive, but also thrive.”
“Economic security begins with practical policies that address rising costs and help families build financial stability and prepare for the future,” said Lael Brainard. “Many of the most effective ideas are emerging from states and local communities, where leaders are responding directly to the challenges families face every day. By helping identify what works, fostering collaboration, and equipping policymakers with practical tools, the Clinton Policy Institute is helping to bolster economic opportunities and improve outcomes for families across the country.”
“I’ve had the privilege of working with Secretary Hillary Rodham Clinton over the years because we share a belief that every child deserves the opportunity to grow up healthy, safe, and able to reach their full potential,” said Dr. Nadine Burke Harris. “A child’s health and future are shaped long before they enter a doctor’s office or a classroom. The policies we choose today can reduce the effects of early adversity, support families, and create healthier communities for generations to come. The Clinton Policy Institute is bringing together leaders across healthcare, education, and government to translate evidence into practical policies that help every child thrive.”
“Strong economies and strong democracies depend on institutions willing to tackle our biggest challenges with both ambition and pragmatism,” said Lynn Forester de Rothschild, the Founder and Chair of the Council for Inclusive Capitalism. “The Clinton Policy Institute represents an important investment in the future of American policymaking, bringing together leaders from government, business, and civil society to advance solutions that expand opportunity, broaden prosperity, and strengthen the social contract between business and society. We are honored to partner with CPI as it helps shape the next generation of policy innovation, through our support for the permanent ‘Sir Evelyn de Rothschild Fellowship for Inclusive Capitalism’ at CPI.”
The Clinton Foundation works to create economic opportunity, improve public health, inspire civic engagement and service, and help communities address the effects of climate change. Since 2001, the Foundation has brought together businesses, governments, nongovernmental organizations, and individuals to improve lives around the world through collaboration and partnership.
This op-ed from Nassau County Legislator Olena Nicks (D-Uniondale) tells who County Executive Bruce Blakeman, the Republican candidate for Governor, is by those who know him best, who have undergone his rule. Should he defeat Democrat Kathy Hochul, he will bring trump-style “governance” to Albany. He has done absolutely nothing for Nassau County, one of the largest in the country, with larger population (and budget), 1.4 million, than 12 states. This op-ed from Legislator Olena Nicks, expressing the frustration of dealing with this super-partisan, super-petty, self-serving “leader”, should be a cautionary tale for the rest of the state.
Women’s reproductive rights, gun violence prevention, immigrant rights, criminal justice, public health and healthcare, childcare and eldercare, Medicaid, clean energy and de-carbonization would all be tossed aside. His claims to “fame”: banning masks by citizens (not ICE or police) in public; setting up a private militia without any transparency, authority or public disclosure of funding; rushing to assist ICE in its raids on communities. What has he not done? Nothing for public health (he came to office declaring COVID-19 ended in the midst of a new mutation spread and as this op-ed shows, has hoarded funds intended for opioid treatment); nothing for infrastructure or clean energy or climate change mitigation; nothing to address affordability, not even his campaign promise to “fix the property tax assessment system.”
What he has devoted his time, attention, and funding to are self-promoting photo ops (firefighters, sports celebrities), and doing anything and everything to appease and appeal to his mentor, Donald Trump. Here’s just one example out of many: On a day when Governor Kathy Hochul was addressing the heat wave by reminding eligible New Yorkers to enroll in the State’s Energy Affordability Program & Enhanced Energy Affordability Program for discounts on monthly electric or gas utility bills, her challenger Nassau County Exec Bruce Blakeman was hosting another photo op, this one with Reggae singer Keznamdi, to promote a Caribbean American Night concert, and as usual, excluding any Democrat.
He turns every event into a partisan one and has hosted almost every cabinet secretary -“Education” Secretary Linda McMahon (to overturn the state’s ban on school teams using insulting Indian mascots) and Treasury Secretary Bessent, VP Vance and even trump himself – all of whom are only in town to deliver partisan messages. – Karen Rubin, editor@news-photos-features.com, news-photos-features.com
Op-Ed: Legislative Proposals Deserve Public Vetting
By Legislator Olena Nicks
As a coequal branch of Nassau County government, the Legislature is designed to provide critical oversight of the County Executive’s administration, and a transparent forum for debate, discussion, and consideration of legislative proposals for addressing the pressing issues our constituents face in their daily lives.
During the last seven months, my Democratic colleagues and I have introduced numerous proposals that seek to make life more affordable, combat the ongoing opioid addiction crisis, improve the safety of our roads, and correct outdated policies that make us a regional outlier.
The Republican Majority’s refusal to even hold a public hearing on any of these legislative ideas is not only a disservice to residents on policy grounds, but it also undermines the Legislature’s established role as a deliberative body and stifles transparency within the government funded by their tax dollars.
As a firefighter in my hometown of Uniondale, initiatives that protect and enhance public health will always be deeply important to me. That is why I was especially alarmed by County Executive Bruce Blakeman’s attempt to move $13.7 million in interest and investment income out of the opioid settlement account – funds which are only to be used for programs that seek to prevent and treat addiction in our communities – and into the county’s general fund, where it could be used for any purpose.
These funds are meant to save lives, not balance the County’s budget, and this attempted raid of the opioid fund exposed a critical gap in our laws. Soon after we discovered the issue, I filed legislation that would prevent those monies from being transferred out of the opioid fund for non-recovery purposes. Although the Republican majority refused to consider the item or hold a public hearing on my proposal, the Democratic caucus ultimately used its leverage under the County Charter to prevent the transfer of those funds.
This is but the most recent example of what has become a well-established practice by the Republican majority of dismissing Democratic-sponsored proposals and ignoring them until they expire at the end of the term. Other recent examples of legislative proposals from my office that have been set aside into this form of legislative purgatory include:
Modernizing Nassau County’s outdated, convoluted laws governing E-bikes and scooters to maintain public safety while protecting users from unfair fines and confiscation
Legislation to enshrine Juneteenthas an official holiday for County employees, bringing us in line with every major municipality in our region
Establishing a 3-1-1 line for non-emergency service requests, which would reduce strain on our emergency call center and make government more accessible and transparent, and
Requiring the County to create an app for reporting and tracking potholes and other unsafe road conditions in real time.
In a similar fashion, Republican leadership is refusing to consider Legislator Cynthia Nuñez’s proposal to enact a gas tax holiday to ease the burden of soaring costs amidst the war in Iran, and Alternate Deputy Minority Leader Debra Mulé’s legislations which would slash outrageous, unlawful fees homeowners are charged to file documents at the County Clerk’s office and greatly reduce permit fees for an array of business owners.
I suspect that the Majority’s refusal to consider these items has less to do with their merits and more to do with political games. By prioritizing the latter, the Majority is depriving the public of formal opportunities to weigh in either for or against what is being proposed.
Moreover, considering how strictly the one-hour rule of public comment at full Legislature meetings is enforced, it all but eliminates the opportunity for Nassau residents to directly address their elected officials on critically important issues.
At a time when public servants should be taking every possible step to strengthen the pillars of participatory democracy, the Nassau County Legislature is sending a clear message that public feedback is an unwanted hindrance.
That is wrong, and it must change. Let our constituents say their piece and then let us vote on the issues that impact the daily lives of the people we are elected to serve.
Olena Nicks, of Uniondale, represents the communities of Nassau County’s Fifth Legislative District.
Governor Kathy Hochul announced the launch of a statewide public service announcement (PSA) campaign to promote secure firearm storage and raise awareness about safe storage options and how to prevent firearm misuse. Led by the New York State Office of Gun Violence Prevention (OGVP) within the Division of Criminal Justice Services and developed in partnership with Brady: United Against Gun Violence and the Ad Council, the campaign is part of New York’s comprehensive approach to strengthening public safety and reducing firearm deaths and injuries.
Meanwhile, trump gleefully follows through on his promise to be the best president the gun lobby ever had, and rolls back even the modest gun violence protection measures instituted by President Joe Biden and pushes to restore the gun show loophole, allow those adjudicated mentally impaired to have guns, restore the ability to mail guns through the mail, and challenge state gun control laws in court, while also withholding federal funds for community violence prevention. (New York had to revise its century-old gun control laws after the Supreme Court overturned it.)
“New York continues to make historic progress reducing gun violence and making our communities safer,” Governor Hochul said. “At the same time, we know too many firearm tragedies happen in homes and involve family members, children and loved ones. This public education campaign will empower gun owners with information and resources on how to securely store their firearms, helping protect their families and prevent needless injuries and deaths.”
The $1 million End Family Fire New York PSA campaign will connect New Yorkers with secure firearm storage information through online and traditional platforms, including social media, out-of-home, radio and television, and a New York-specific End Family Fire website. The campaign was developed in collaboration with OpAD Media, which is supporting strategic media placement and outreach efforts. Campaign advertising and outreach will continue through February 2027. According to Brady, the presence of a firearm in a home increases the risk of suicide more than three-fold, and nationally, more than 300 children unintentionally shoot themselves or someone else each year. Approximately seven million children live in homes with access to an unsecured firearm. Securely storing guns unloaded, locked and separately from ammunition is proven to prevent these tragedies.
New York is the fifth state to partner with Brady and the Ad Council on the End Family Fire campaign. Since its national launch in 2018, the campaign has helped drive over three million viewers to seek out more information on safe firearm storage nationwide and has demonstrated success increasing secure firearm storage practices among gun owners, with almost 60 percent who saw the ads changing how or where they keep their firearms in order to store them in a safer manner.
New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services Commissioner Rossana Rosado said, “A message can save a life if it reaches the right person at the right time. Through this campaign, we’re bringing the safe firearm storage message to communities across New York and giving families the information they need to prevent tragedies before they happen. Every conversation, every reminder and every firearm securely stored is an opportunity to protect a loved one.”
New York State Office of Gun Violence Prevention Director Calliana Thomas said, “Families take simple steps every day to keep their loved ones safe, from buckling seat belts to locking doors at night. Safe firearm storage is another important way to reduce risk and help prevent tragedy. By storing firearms unloaded, locked and separate from ammunition, gun owners can help prevent unintentional shootings, children gaining access to firearms and suicide. Through this campaign, we’re providing New Yorkers with practical information and resources to help keep families and communities safe.”
Brady President Kris Brown said, “We applaud New York for launching the End Family Fire public education campaign and for investing in a proven strategy to prevent firearm-related tragedies before they happen. Gun owners across the state want to keep their loved ones safe, and this campaign provides practical information proven to prevent unintentional shootings, youth access to firearms and suicide. By putting education and awareness first, New York is taking a meaningful step that will prevent heartbreak, protect families and save lives.”
New York State Department of Veterans’ Services Commissioner Dr. Viviana M. DeCohen said, “Secure firearm storage is a practical, responsible step that can help protect Veterans, Service Members, families, and communities. Clear information, such as the guidance provided through this campaign, is critical to helping New Yorkers understand safe storage options and take steps that can prevent moments of crisis, accidental injury and heartbreaking loss. This effort aligns with our Department’s ongoing commitment to supporting the well-being of All Who Served and the families who stand beside them. We are grateful to Governor Hochul for her leadership and commitment to advancing prevention efforts that help keep New Yorkers and their loved ones safe.”
New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said, “I thank Governor Hochul for her leadership in improving public safety and reducing firearm deaths and injuries. To avoid firearm misuse, practice safe storage practices which include unloading and locking your firearm before storing and keeping ammunition in a separate location. This campaign will remind New Yorkers that secure firearm storage can end family fire and save lives.”
New York State Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence Executive Director Kelli Nicholas Owens said, “Safe storage is an important safety practice to prevent accidental tragedies. It is another tool in New York’s nation-leading toolbox to prevent gun violence. At the same time, Governor Hochul has always recognized that responsibility for domestic violence rests with the person who chooses to harm their partner. New York continues to find innovative ways to support survivors, including removing guns from domestic violence abusers. Thank you, Governor Hochul, for your commitment to protecting all New Yorkers from gun violence.”
Data from the Division of Criminal Justice Services shows an 18 percent decrease in shooting incidents with injury in communities participating in the state’s Gun Involved Violence Elimination (GIVE) initiative during the first five months of 2026 compared to the same time last year. There also were 164 fewer individuals shot, a 20 percent drop (164 vs. 204), and a 49 percent decline in firearm-related murders (21 vs. 41). The GIVE initiative currently provides $36 million for equipment, overtime, and personnel, as well as comprehensive, focused training and technical assistance, to 28 participating police departments and their county law enforcement partners: district attorneys’ offices, probation departments and sheriffs’ offices. These police departments are on the front lines of fighting gun violence outside of New York City and account for roughly 90 percent of violent crimes involving firearms and 85 percent of all violent crime reported outside the five boroughs.
The Division of Criminal Justice Services provides critical support to all facets of the state’s criminal justice system, including, but not limited to: training law enforcement and other criminal justice professionals; overseeing a law enforcement accreditation program; ensuring Breathalyzer and speed enforcement equipment used by local law enforcement operate correctly; managing criminal justice grant funding; analyzing statewide crime and program data; providing research support; overseeing county probation departments and alternatives to incarceration programs; and coordinating youth justice policy. Follow DCJS on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
Brady: United Against Gun Violence is the nation’s oldest gun organization working to free America from gun violence. We believe that changing laws alone won’t end our nation’s gun violence crisis; we must also change hearts and minds. That’s why we take a comprehensive approach to end this epidemic: change the laws, change the gun industry and change the conversation about guns in America. Visit bradyunited.org to take action today.
The Ad Council convenes creative storytellers to educate, unite and uplift audiences by opening hearts, inspiring action and accelerating change. For more than 80 years, the nonprofit organization and its partners in advertising, media, marketing and tech have been behind some of the country’s most iconic social impact campaigns — Smokey Bear, Friends Don’t Let Friends Drive Drunk, Tear the Paper Ceiling and many more. To learn more or get involved, visit AdCouncil.org, join the Ad Council’s communities on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn, and view campaign creative on YouTube.
