Governor Kathy Hochul has been named to the 2025 TIME100 Climate list, recognizing the 100 most influential global leaders driving business climate action. (View the full list on TIME’s website.)
“I’m proud that New York’s work to build a cleaner, more resilient future is being recognized on a global stage by such an esteemed publication as Time Magazine,” Governor Hochul said. “Our approach is rooted in partnership and practicality: supporting innovation, protecting communities, and ensuring New York’s future is both sustainable and affordable.”
Meanwhile (and in contrast), Trump has stopped work on leading edge Empire Wind project, an offshore wind farm planned to power about 500,000 New York City homes, with construction and the development of a port facility in Brooklyn already underway, and cancelled $7.6 billion in clean, renewable energy grants nationwide, including $450 million destined for New York.
Building a Climate-Resilient Future
Governor Hochul served as Co-Chair of the US Climate Alliance from 2024-2025 and now serves on its Executive Committee, utilizing the Alliance to champion climate science and push back against federal resistance to climate progress. As a founding-state, New York has helped achieve the Alliance’s collective reduction of net greenhouse gas emissions 24 percent below 2005 levels. This historic emissions reduction milestone puts the 24 Alliance states on track to achieve its near-term target of 26 percent reductions by 2025, with New York leading the way.
Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, New York launched the New York State Adaptation and Resilience Plan, a first-of-its-kind, unified statewide initiative to prepare communities for the challenges of a changing climate. The plan coordinates efforts across state agencies to strengthen climate readiness through projects like shoreline restoration, resilient infrastructure upgrades and protecting critical assets from flooding, building upon funding from various sources including the $4.2 billion Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act and other state programs. As part of the Environmental Bond Act, the Governor has committed historic levels of resources to protecting New York’s coastlines through programs like the Coastal Rehabilitation and Resiliency Projects Program and Inland Flooding and Local Waterfront Revitalization Program (LWRP) Implementation Projects Program, which deployed over $30 million to fund essential coastline protection projects, utilizing nature-based solutions to combat erosion, flooding and sea-level rise.
Governor Hochul has also championed the Green Resiliency Grant program, dedicating millions in funding to support flood-prone communities. This competitive grant program prioritizes innovative, nature-based infrastructure like green roofs, permeable pavement and restoring natural habitats to help reduce stormwater runoff and mitigate flooding.
Through the Resilient Economic Development Initiative (REDI), the Governor is deploying $300 million to Lake Ontario and St. Lawrence River shoreline communities for resiliency projects in response to past extreme flooding and high water level events. Furthermore, her administration has provided the State action and leadership necessary to secure critical federal partnership with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), successfully advancing long-awaited, large-scale coastal storm risk management projects that will provide vital shoreline stabilization and protection for communities across the state.
Driving A Greener Economy and Green Jobs
Governor Hochul successfully launched New York City’s first-in-the-nation Congestion Pricing Program this January, which has reduced traffic, improved air quality and secured $15 billion for capital investments to the Metropolitan Transportation Authority. Additionally, under Governor Hochul’s leadership, New York is making historic investments in a greener economy through the $1 billion Sustainable Future Program, the largest climate investment in state history. The program accelerates New York’s transition to a clean energy economy, lowers costs for homeowners and small businesses, and creates thousands of family-sustaining jobs.
Key Investments Include:
$150 million for the Green Small Buildings Program to help homes and small buildings install energy-efficient upgrades like heat pumps.
$200 million through the New York Power Authority (NYPA) to finance renewable energy projects that expand clean power generation and lower ratepayer costs.
$200 million dedicated to expanding thermal energy networks, which use a system of pipes to share heating and cooling resources among multiple buildings.
$100 million for zero-emission school buses and an additional $100 million to expand EV charging infrastructure statewide.
$50 million allocated to the EmPower+ to help low- and moderate-income residents make their homes more energy-efficient, while targeted investments in public schools improve air quality and reduce carbon emissions.
Approximately 180,000 jobs, making New York among the nation’s leaders in creating clean energy jobs.
Passing nation-leading Green CHIPS legislation providing up to $10 billion in incentives for semiconductor manufacturing projects that commit to environmental sustainability measures.
Advancing New York’s All-of-the-Above Energy Approach
Despite federal headwinds and post-COVID inflation and supply chain issues, New York under Governor Hochul’s leadership continues to chart a bold path towards a cleaner, more resilient and affordable energy future. By investing in a diverse mix of energy resources, innovative projects, and cutting-edge technologies, the State is expanding access to clean power that supports families and businesses. These efforts are creating cleaner environments and driving economic growth, ensuring that New Yorkers share in the benefits and advantages of a sustainable and reliable 21st-century energy system.
Key Initiatives and Accomplishments Include:
Operating the nation’s first utility scale offshore wind farm, South Fork Wind, and advancing other offshore wind projects, including Empire Wind and Sunrise Wind.
Exceeding the 2025 distributed solar goal of six gigawatts of solar ahead of schedule, solidifying New York’s leadership in the solar industry.
Approving 31 large-scale solar and wind projects representing more than 4.2 gigawatts of clean energy, enough to power roughly 1.5 million homes.
Signing the RAPID Act into law, consolidating environmental review, permitting, and siting of major renewable energy facilities and major electric transmission facilities under the Office of Renewable Energy Siting (ORES), cutting permitting timelines by up to 50 percent while maintaining strong local engagement and environmental protections.
Constructing the Champlain Hudson Power Express Transmission line to deliver a significant portion of New York City’s electricity from clean Canada hydropower by mid-2026.
Directing the New York Power Authority (NYPA) to build at least one gigawatt of new advanced nuclear energy, which will provide enough clean energy to power 1 million Upstate homes.
Modernizing the grid by completing the Central East Energy Connect (93 miles) on time and $200 million under budget. The Smart Path rebuild (78 miles), upgraded lines to carry more power, hardening infrastructure against extreme weather.
Expanding future infrastructure by modernizing 90 miles of lines including the Smart Path Connect, which is under construction with NYPA and National Grid, and Propel NY, a $3.2 billion initiative led by NYPA and New York Transco, which will upgrade underground and submarine lines through Westchester, Long Island and New York City, while incorporating community input at every step.
Boosting reliability and saving money through transmission upgrades, like the Empire State Line in Western New York, which is moving gigawatts of clean power efficiently, improving reliability and saving ratepayers money. Since 2021, under Governor Hochul’s leadership, New York has completed or advanced hundreds of miles of new and upgraded transmission lines.
Directed state agencies in August to work together to responsibly advance shovel-ready renewable energy projects as quickly as possible to take advantage of expiring federal tax credits.
Protecting Natural Resources and Strengthening Communities
Under Governor Hochul’s leadership in Fiscal Year 2025, New York State’s coordinated clean water grants and financing surpassed $3.8 billion in 2025 alone — an unprecedented investment that is transforming water systems in communities of every size. This includes Governor Hochul’s continued $500 million annual commitment to clean water projects.
Additional Key Investments Include:
$26 million made available through the Climate Resilient Farming and State’s Ecosystem Based Management Program to help farmers reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve soil health and protect water quality.
Moving forward with the Governor’s 25 Million Trees initiative to enhance reforestation and green infrastructure statewide.
$30 million in Environmental Bond Act funding for 19 projects across the state designed to mitigate flood risk, restore wetlands, and strengthen coastal and inland protections.
Investments building on the $4.2 billion Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act, which directs at least 35 percent of all benefits to disadvantaged communities — ensuring equity remains central to New York’s climate agenda.
State Zero-Emission Credits Program Helps Spark $151 Million in Energy Savings and Clean, Reliable Electricity Generation
Governor Kathy Hochul announced a major affordability win for millions of New Yorkers: $151 million in energy bill savings in 2026 as a result of the State’s Zero-Emissions Credits (ZEC) program, with the potential for additional savings in future years depending on market conditions. These cost savings will flow directly to New Yorkers, reducing the costs associated with keeping vital existing nuclear power plants online.
“My top priorities are energy affordability for New York consumers and making sure the lights stay on,” Governor Hochul said. “The Zero Emission Tax Credit program is a prime example of how the state was able to take a federal tax credit and turn it into needed energy savings for ratepayers while at the same time supporting clean and reliable electricity generation in the state.”
The ZEC program was created by the New York State Public Service Commission in 2016 to compensate the four Upstate nuclear plants for their zero-emissions power. Under the program, any benefits received from the federal nuclear production tax credit (PTC) enacted in 2022 are required to be passed along to ratepayers.
Constellation Energy owns or controls the four operating nuclear power reactors, located across three facilities, including Ginna, Fitzpatrick, and Nine Mile. All three facilities are located along the southern shore of Lake Ontario. The federal nuclear PTC now being claimed by Constellation Energy will result in a $151 million benefit to electricity consumers in New York State.
Governor Kathy Hochul today declared a state of emergency and announced new actions in response to the Trump administration stripping food assistance from 3 million New Yorkers come November 1. As the GOP federal government shutdown continues, the Trump administration has refused to release billions in statutorily approved federal contingency funding that would address this crisis in states across the nation. By refusing to release this contingency funding, the federal government is leaving millions of New Yorkers without critical assistance they rely on to feed themselves and their families.
While Washington Republicans refuse to act to avert this crisis, Governor Hochul is stepping up by committing an additional $65 million in new State funds for emergency food assistance that will reinforce New York’s network of vital food bank and pantry partners and provide about 40 million meals to hungry New Yorkers. The Governor is also deploying Empire State Service Corps and SUNY Corps Members to support local food banks during this emergency period of increased need, and continuing to explore food hubs at schools.
“The Trump Administration is cutting food assistance off for three million New Yorkers, leaving our state to face an unprecedented public health crisis and hurting our grocers, bodegas and farmers along the way,” Governor Hochul said. “Unlike Washington Republicans, I won’t sit idly by as families struggle to put food on the table. Today, I’m declaring a state of emergency and am committing additional state funds for emergency food assistance to ensure New Yorkers don’t go hungry. Donald Trump and Republicans in Congress have the power to stop this crisis — millions of families depend on it.”
Since the inception of the program, SNAP benefits have been federally funded. New York administers approximately $650 million per month in federally funded SNAP benefits to nearly 3 million New Yorkers. Given the scale of the program, Governor Hochul along with governors across the country have repeatedly emphasized that no state government can replace SNAP benefits or backfill the program.
Here’s a look at what today’s announcement means for New Yorkers:
$65M in new State funds for programs that support food banks, pantries, soup kitchens and more to provide emergency food assistance to New Yorkers
$40M in new funding for the Hunger Prevention and Nutrition Assistance Program, which provides emergency food relief and nutrition services to food-insecure populations. HPNAP works in partnership with a network of about 2,700 Emergency Food Providers (EFPs), including food pantries, soup kitchens, and shelters.
$25M in new funding for Nourish NY, which supplies surplus agricultural products (e.g., milk, apples, cheese, yogurt, cabbage, squash) to populations who need them through the State’s network of food relief organizations (i.e., regional food banks, food pantries, soup kitchens, and community-based organizations that provide food for free to persons experiencing food insecurity).
Deploying Empire State Service Corps and SUNY Corps Members to support food banks
Currently, hundreds of SUNY students serve as peer navigators, helping fellow students complete SNAP applications and assisting at campus and local food pantries.
The Empire State Service Corps will allow current members to expand their paid hours, enabling them to provide greater support at food pantries statewide. In addition, new short-term crisis response positions will be created to assist food pantries and food banks facing staffing shortages.
Today’s announcement comes as New York, along with 24 other states, sued the Trump administration on Tuesday to demand the release of emergency SNAP funds. The Governor also joined a letter alongside 20 other Governors to the President, calling for the Administration to reverse course and release emergency SNAP funds. Governor Hochul also fast-tracked $41 million in state funds for emergency food assistance earlier this week — today’s announcement brings the total of allocated state funds to $106 million.
New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said, “The federal government’s refusal to release emergency food assistance will have devastating consequences for families already struggling to make ends meet. Access to nutritious food is a fundamental public health necessity — it affects everything from childhood development to chronic disease prevention. Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, the State Health Department is working closely with food banks, local health departments and community organizations to ensure no New Yorker goes hungry during this crisis. These actions reflect our shared commitment to protecting the health and well-being of all New Yorkers.”
New York State Education Commissioner Betty A. Rosa said, “No student should have to choose between focusing on their education and worrying about their next meal. In response to the recent cuts to SNAP benefits, our agencies are coming together to make sure no student is left behind. This is a team effort, working hand in hand with our partners in government, communities, and local organizations to build a safety net that ensures that hunger never stands in the way of learning and opportunity.”
New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance Commissioner Barbara C. Guinn said, “SNAP recipients, most of whom are children, older adults or individuals with a disability, count on SNAP every month to feed their families. The federal government’s callous decision to cut off federal funding for SNAP recipients for the first time in the program’s history underscores this administration’s lack of understanding of the difficult economic realities facing nearly 3 million New Yorkers and millions more of our fellow Americans. Now is a pivotal moment for our federal government to honor its long-standing social safety-net obligations. We are grateful for Governor Hochul’s leadership and commitment to fighting on behalf of New Yorkers and demanding accountability from federal officials.”
New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball said, “I am grateful for our Governor’s swift response to the federal government’s senseless and reckless cuts that will put millions of New Yorkers in jeopardy of not having enough food to put on the table, stress the emergency food system, and impact our farmers in the process. By providing additional, critical funding to our feeding assistance programs, such as Nourish NY, we will be able to help our food banks and food pantries purchase and make available more local farm products to our communities in need. This is one more step in New York’s efforts to fight back and ensure we do everything we can to maintain support of our families and our farmers.”
House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries said, “From day one, Donald Trump and rubber-stamp Republicans have waged an all-out assault on the health, safety and well-being of the American people. Their latest attempt to rip food out of the mouths of children, seniors and veterans who have served our country honorably is a disgusting dereliction of duty and makes clear that the cruelty is the point. Instead of finding money to pay off wannabe dictators in Argentina, Donald Trump should use the money that was appropriated by Congress to make sure that 42 million Americans do not go hungry and lose their SNAP benefits. I am grateful to Governor Hochul for her strong leadership and her principled commitment to making sure that every single New Yorker can put food on the table. It’s time for Republicans in Washington to do the same.”
State Senator Cordell Cleare said, “Over 3 million New Yorkers rely on SNAP including almost 1 million of our beloved Older New Yorkers. The program is a lifeline and provides a baseline of humanity and quality of life for those seeking just to simply provide for themselves and their family. It shocks the conscience that Trump and Congressional Republicans would hold families hostage like this, bulldozing the White House and plowing under the well-being of millions. I join the Governor in not only calling out the hypocrisy but in making certain that New York steps up to the plate and funds SNAP with state resources.”
State Senator Michelle Hinchey said, “Starting Saturday, the Trump administration will cut off SNAP benefits, leaving 3 million New Yorkers without enough to eat. SNAP is one of our country’s most effective anti-hunger programs, and taking it away is a cruel abdication of the federal government’s duty. We have to take every action to protect New Yorkers from the food insecurity created by the Trump administration, and I thank Governor Hochul for this new funding and support for food pantries, which will help us fight against this crisis.”
Assemblymember Rebecca A. Seawright said, “As Chair of the Assembly Committee on Aging, I applaud Governor Hochul for taking swift action to safeguard millions of New Yorkers from losing the food assistance they rely on. Older adults are among the most vulnerable to food insecurity, and the continued refusal of the federal government to release emergency SNAP funds is unconscionable. The Governor’s investment will strengthen our food banks and pantries, ensuring seniors and families can continue to access the nutrition they need to live with dignity. I stand with Governor Hochul in calling for the immediate release of federal contingency funding and for protecting the health and well-being of every New Yorker.”
New York Common Pantry Executive Director Stephen Grimaldi said, “The Government shutdown will have serious adverse effects for SNAP recipients on November 1st, impacting the working poor, elderly, children and the disabled. We’ve got to do better. The federal government must continue to provide SNAP funds to ensure people are fed or millions will flood food pantries and soup kitchens, overwhelming the emergency feeding network. We’ve just served the largest number of households coming for Pantry services in one day, in anticipation of the cuts.”
Food Bank For NYC CEO and President Leslie Gordon said, “Amid surging food insecurity rates, the Federal shutdown has created so much uncertainty and devastating long lasting impact for so many. We are incredibly grateful for the Governor’s leadership. Her support, along with that of the State government, allows us to continue to meet the growing need and serve every neighbor with dignity.”
Sharing Excess CEO Evan Ehlers said, “While we face a growing crisis of food access, the U.S. continues to waste nearly 40% of its food supply, throwing away ten times more food than we need to feed everyone. At Sharing Excess, we’re committed to redirecting that surplus to communities in need, and we’re thrilled to partner with Governor Kathy Hochul and r4 to make a meaningful difference for families across New York during a critical time of need.”
$1 Million Being Awarded to Providers To Continue Successful Community Prevention Coalitions Initiative First Launched in 2024
(Just imagine for a moment if MAGA Republican Lee Zeldin, now Trump’s EPA Administrator who is destroying the environment, dismantling environmental protection and climate action, had beaten Kathy Hochul for New York State Governor. Imagine if even a man in the role would be this aggressive in protecting women, families, reproductive health care and gender rights. Republicans make a campaign slogan of “law and order” and “crime fighting” but when it comes to actions, do nothing to promote safety or security where it matters – gun violence prevention, domestic violence, traffic enforcement—Karen Rubin, editor@news-photos-features.com, news-photos-features.com)
Governor Kathy Hochul highlighted progress in strengthening the law enforcement response to domestic violence and better protecting survivors and families through significant improvements to training for police recruits and current law enforcement professionals. Beginning January 1, 2026, all recruits must complete a new Domestic Incident Response section of the required Basic Course for Police Officers, a major step forward in how new officers are trained to respond to intimate partner and gender-based violence. In the past six months, nearly 1,000 professionals representing law enforcement agencies, district attorney offices, and probation departments in each of the 17 counties participating in STRIVE (Statewide Targeted Reductions in Intimate Partner Violence) have received training to implement trauma-informed, survivor-centered strategies.
“As the daughter of a domestic violence survivor, I know firsthand that the scars of domestic violence run deep; that’s why I’m committed to strengthening resources from law enforcement to support services so we can better protect survivors,” Governor Hochul said. “We’ve made significant progress — allocating record levels of funding for victim services and law enforcement, and empowering district attorneys to take on violent offenders — but our work is far from finished. I’ll never stop fighting to protect families and ensure every New Yorker is safe.”
The 16-hour Domestic Incident Response curriculum incorporates the latest research and practices in domestic violence response. It emphasizes survivor-centered, culturally responsive, and trauma-informed policing, reflecting the principles that guide New York’s statewide approach to preventing and responding to domestic and gender-based violence. The curriculum also:
introduces lethality assessment training to help officers recognize indicators of escalating or potentially lethal violence;
features interactive exercises, decision-based exercises and reality-based scenarios that prepare recruits for the complex nature of domestic incident calls;
teaches trauma-informed interviewing techniques to help officers understand how trauma can affect survivors;
addresses technology-facilitated abuse, such as cyberstalking and GPS tracking; and
provides guidance on documenting and using digital evidence to strengthen investigations and prosecutions.
Developed by the State Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) in partnership with the state Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence, the curriculum was approved by the State’s Municipal Police Training Council last month. Among other responsibilities, the Council sets basic training requirements for police, peace, and correction officers. The Basic Course for Police Officers consists of more than 700 hours of training on topics ranging from cultural diversity to crisis intervention, and recruits must successfully complete it within one year of appointment.
New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services Commissioner Rossana Rosado said, “The new Domestic Incident Response curriculum and our growing STRIVE initiative reflect a clear evolution in how New York approaches domestic violence. Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, we’re equipping officers with the tools to respond with empathy and awareness, and helping communities build survivor-centered systems that protect families and promote long-term change.”
New York State Office of Victim Services Director Bea Hanson said, “Our goal is to make sure everyone impacted by violence has access to the resources they need and deserve no matter who they reach out to for help. For survivors of domestic violence and intimate partner abuse who choose to report to law enforcement, we need to do everything we can to ensure that the criminal justice system has the training and resources needed to respond appropriately. This project is part of the Governor’s continued commitment to support the safety and healing of those impacted by domestic violence.”
New York State Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence General Counsel Jara Traina said, “When survivors call the police for assistance during a domestic violence incident, they deserve a response that is survivor-centered and trauma-informed. Be it through programs like STRIVE, revamping trainings for law enforcement, or improvements to gun and discovery reform laws, Governor Hochul has made it clear that New York is committed to combating domestic violence and holding those who harm accountable. OPDV is proud to have taken the lead in writing and training first responders on this new curriculum. We are thankful for the Governor’s leadership, and for collaborations like this one with DCJS that further our mission.”
This updated training complements the STRIVE initiative, in which Governor Hochul has invested a record $20.2 million to improve how communities address domestic violence by fostering collaboration among police, prosecutors, probation departments, and service providers. In the last six months, nearly 1,000 professionals have been trained by subject-matter experts supported by more than $300,000 in STRIVE funding. That technical assistance training is ongoing, and DCJS field advisors are working directly with STRIVE-funded agencies and organizations to strengthen local implementation and build sustainable, coordinated community responses.
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, LinkedIn and X (formerly Twitter).
Governor Kathy Hochul announced the launch of the Housing Acceleration Fund, a $215 million first-of-its kind program to speed up construction of shovel-ready mixed-income residential projects across New York State. One of the Governor’s key housing proposals from her 2025 State of the State, the Housing Acceleration Fund is part of her all-of-the-above approach to increasing housing supply to address acute housing needs, and accommodate job growth statewide. Too often, communities do not have tools to create mixed income rental housing, leaving many developments permit-ready, but unable to secure financing. New York’s Housing Acceleration Fund will help address this vital need and spur the development of new housing statewide. The fund is catalyzed by the Governor’s $100 million investment secured in the FY26 Enacted Budget and matched with $115 million from awarded participating lenders.
“To combat the housing crisis in New York, we’re leaving no stone unturned,” Governor Hochul said. “This new, innovative loan program is a powerful new tool to help jumpstart the construction of mixed-income housing in communities across the state. These new resources are just one more way for us to help build more housing opportunities for our families, seniors and young adults.”
The Housing Acceleration Fund awards announced today are expected to result in approximately 1,800 new homes statewide. The awardees are:
Community Preservation Corporation: $45.5 million
Merchants Bank: $42 million
Enterprise Community Partners: $7.5 million
Local Initiatives Support Corporation: $5 million
Half of the State’s $100 million investment is appropriated for projects within New York City and half is allocated to projects throughout the rest of the state. Awardees will provide $115 million in additional capital, bringing the total amount of funding for projects within New York City to $100 million and the amount for projects throughout the rest of the state to $115 million.
The Housing Acceleration Fund, administered by New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR), will provide low-cost, construction loans to fill financing gaps in the construction of mixed-income housing developments. The Fund is designed to utilize public capital to leverage private capital investment in mixed-income multifamily rental production. The Fund is estimated to generate upwards of $1 billion in new housing investment throughout New York State.
The revolving loan fund model complements other HCR programs to enhance housing production and will speed up production of new rental housing beyond reliance upon limited resources dedicated to the creation of 100 percent affordable housing such as tax-exempt bonds and low-income housing tax credits. The program is designed to self-sustain over time through loan repayments once projects convert to permanent financing once the project is complete. To learn more about the New York State Housing Acceleration Fund program, visit the HCR website.
New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said, “By partnering with these four lending institutions, we are injecting more than $200 million towards the creation of 1,800 new apartments for residents across the state. Other states have shown this innovative, self-sustaining loan model can fill funding gaps that may be the difference between new housing being built or never getting off the ground, and we’re thrilled to bring this important tool to New York. We once again applaud Governor Hochul for her efforts to boost the supply of housing across the state, and we thank our partners for sharing our commitment to creating affordable, modern housing in all our communities.”
“I applaud Governor Hochul and Commissioner Visnauskas for continuing to advance an ambitious housing agenda that puts the needs of New York’s communities at the forefront,” The Community Preservation Corporation CEO Rafael E. Cestero said. “At a time when cities large and small are facing challenges of housing affordability and supply, this Administration has given us a tool that drives critical investment in housing and will speed the development of new projects across the state. My thanks to the Governor and her team at HCR for their continued partnership. We stand ready to put this funding to work alongside our capital to get shovels in the ground and provide new housing opportunities to all New Yorkers.”
Merchants Capital Vice Chairman of Agency Lending Mathew Wambua said,“Merchants Capital is honored to be selected to participate in the HCR Housing Acceleration Fund Program and thrilled to deepen our partnership with HCR and our clients in this important initiative. This program represents a powerful opportunity to accelerate the development of shovel-ready affordable housing projects across New York City and New York State. By leveraging these low-cost loans, we can help bring much-needed housing to communities throughout the region—ensuring more New Yorkers have access to safe, stable and affordable homes.”
“Enterprise Community Partners is honored to partner with New York State’s Homes and Community Renewal through its Housing Acceleration Fund.,” Enterprise’s Capital Division President Lori Chatman said. “This innovative program reflects our shared vision of making home and community places of pride, power, and belonging. By combining public resources with mission-driven capital, we can move shovel-ready, mixed-income housing projects forward faster — closing critical financing gaps and delivering the affordable homes New Yorkers urgently need.”
LISC NY Senior Executive Director Valerie White said, “We thank Governor Kathy Hochul and New York State Homes and Community Renewal for their leadership and partnership in creating the Housing Acceleration Fund and moving swiftly to bring it to fruition. LISC NY is proud to work with the State to deliver critical resources that help communities develop mixed-income housing and move more projects from vision to reality. This $5 million investment from HCR, alongside LISC NY’s own $25 million commitment, will empower affordable housing developers to overcome predevelopment barriers, strengthen housing pipelines, and deliver the quality, affordable homes New Yorkers urgently need.”
State Senator Rachel May said, “The Housing Acceleration Fund is a smart, targeted investment in New York’s future. Communities across the state want to build more housing, but too often good projects are held back by gaps in financing. This program helps get good projects off the ground, including mixed-income housing that supports the workforce and strengthens neighborhoods. In Syracuse and across Central New York, the need for new, affordable, and energy-efficient housing is especially acute, and the State’s investment will help meet that demand while creating more vibrant, inclusive communities.”
Assemblymember Linda B. Rosenthal said, “The Housing Acceleration Fund is a welcome tool to help ease the housing crisis facing New York State. Communities around the state are grappling with rising construction costs and would welcome new rental housing, but lack the financing to get the job done. With Governor Hochul’s welcome announcement of a $215 million investment from the state, we can jumpstart construction on these projects and continue our work toward ensuring that every New Yorker has a safe, affordable place to call home.”
Assemblymember Micah Lasher said, “It is outstanding that Governor Hochul and HCR are announcing a major public revolving loan fund for affordable housing. I was proud to introduce legislation at the beginning of the year with Senator May to create this kind of fund, and Governor Hochul and her team have done it even bigger and better. By leveraging public dollars to unlock private investment, this fund will create thousands of new homes and generate over a billion dollars in housing development across the State. When we think creatively to solve our housing crisis, we can deliver real results for New Yorkers.”
Governor Hochul’s Housing Agenda
Governor Hochul is dedicated to addressing New York’s housing crisis and making the State more affordable and more livable for all New Yorkers. As part of the FY25 Enacted Budget, the Governor secured a landmark agreement to increase New York’s housing supply through new tax incentives, capital funding, and new protections for renters and homeowners. Building on this commitment, the FY26 Enacted Budget includes more than $1.5 billion in new State funding for housing, a Housing Access Voucher pilot program, and new policies to improve affordability for tenants and homebuyers. These measures complement the Governor’s five-year, $25 billion Housing Plan, included in the FY23 Enacted Budget, 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 68,000 homes have been created or preserved to date.
The FY25 and FY26 Enacted Budgets also strengthened the Governor’s Pro-Housing Community Program — which allows certified localities exclusive access to up to $750 million in discretionary State funding. Currently, more than 370 communities have received Pro-Housing certification.
Governor Kathy Hochul announced that New York State will protect access to reproductive health care services despite Washington Republicans’ targeted attacks against Planned Parenthood health centers and the services they provide. Earlier this year, Congressional Republicans voted to end Medicaid patients’ ability to seek care at Planned Parenthood, threatening Planned Parenthood’s ability to operate in New York and compromising New Yorkers’ access to health care services, including contraception, abortion, STI and HIV prevention, prenatal and menopausal care, mental health services, and preventive care like wellness visits and cancer screenings.
”Washington Republicans have shown time and again that they’ll stop at nothing to undermine women’s health care and restrict access to reproductive rights,” Governor Hochul said.“In the face of Congressional Republicans voting to defund Planned Parenthood, I’ve directed the state to fund these vital services, protecting access to health care that thousands of New Yorkers rely on. I will always stand up for reproductive rights and the health care that New Yorkers deserve.”
Planned Parenthood is the leading provider of sexual and reproductive health services in New York State via five affiliate organizations, including Planned Parenthood of Greater New York, Planned Parenthood Hudson Peconic, Planned Parenthood of Central and Western New York, Planned Parenthood of the North Country New York, and Upper Hudson Planned Parenthood. This network of affiliates currently operates 47 health centers that serve over 200,000 patients each year. This includes 100,000 Medicaid patients, totaling over $35 million in annual Gross Medicaid revenue.
Over 60 percent of Planned Parenthood health centers are in rural or medically underserved areas, and these centers are often the only option available to New Yorkers living in these rural areas. They are a critical source of affordable health care to Medicaid and non-Medicaid recipients.
What Washington Republicans Voted To Do:
H.R. 1, enacted into law on July 4, includes a one-year prohibition on federal Medicaid funding for organizations that provide abortions and that received $800,000 or more in federal Medicaid funds in 2023.
H.R. 1 classified these organizations as “prohibited entities.” Planned Parenthood’s five affiliates in New York are the only providers in the state that meet the definition of a “prohibited entity.”
Prior to the passage of H.R. 1, Medicaid claims submitted by Planned Parenthood were reimbursed with a combination of federal and State dollars, though no federal dollars are used to reimburse abortion services.
Now that they are deemed a “prohibited entity” under H.R. 1, Planned Parenthood is no longer eligible to receive federal Medicaid funds for any of the services they provide.
Governor Hochul is protecting access to reproductive health care for all New Yorkers by allocating state funds to cover lost federal funding to Planned Parenthood affiliates in New York.
Governor Hochul continues to reaffirm her commitment to keeping reproductive resources safe and accessible in New York State. The Governor has made historic investments to expand reproductive freedom for New Yorkers, including increasing funding for abortion care providers, signing legislation to protect New York doctors and securing $25 million annually to fund abortion health care services through the New York State Abortion Access Program.
Hochul Sends $11 Million to Support Local Emergency Food Relief
Governor Kathy Hochul announced more than $11 million to support emergency food relief for New Yorkers in need. More than $5 million in Local Emergency Food Relief Equipment grants were awarded to nearly 100 not-for-profit organizations, including food pantries, soup kitchens, and other programs dedicated to assisting New Yorkers experiencing food insecurity across the state. In addition, more than $6 million will support a renewed partnership with Feeding New York State and the 10 regional food banks by funding critical staffing and essential operations at food banks and their local partners statewide. This action comes at a time when the Trump Administration refuses to ensure the nearly 3 million New Yorkers who rely on SNAP will have access to their benefits next month.
“While the Trump administration continues to starve federal food assistance programs of funding, New York State is investing directly in local organizations that feed New Yorkers who are struggling with skyrocketing food prices,” Governor Hochul said. “With more than three million New Yorkers experiencing food insecurity, including more than 750,000 children under the age of 18, we are making investments in community-based food relief organizations to fight hunger and complement our wide-ranging affordability efforts.”
A total of 97 Local Emergency Food Relief Equipment grants, ranging from $1,200 to $100,000, will help organizations purchase emergency generators and equipment used for cooling and transporting donated food, and expand the quantity and type of food emergency food relief organizations can provide to New Yorkers in need. The grant program is administered by the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) as part of an ongoing commitment to properly manage wasted food, prevent food from needlessly being thrown away, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, feed hungry New Yorkers and engage with communities across the state.
With funding provided by the State’s Environmental Protection Fund (EPF), DEC has awarded millions to 145 emergency food relief organizations since the program was first created in 2018 to assist with the purchase of equipment used for the cooling and transportation of donated food to New Yorkers in need.
DEC is also renewing its nation-leading partnership with Feeding New York State and the 10 regional food banks as part of the ongoing implementation of the New York State Food Donation and Food Scraps Recycling Law. DEC is providing more than $6 million to Feeding New York State to support the ongoing deployment of staff to grocery stores, supercenters, restaurants and other food service and food retail businesses to enhance donation activities. Funding will also be used to purchase essential equipment and supplies that support food recovery efforts at food banks and their local partners and hire additional staff at food banks. It will also enhance the Venison Donation program that supports additional processing of high-quality venison. DEC has provided $10.8 million to Feeding New York State and the 10 regional food banks through the EPF since 2018.
Governor Hochul today penned a letter to U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins calling on the USDA to take immediate action to ensure SNAP recipients receive their November benefits. As the shutdown continues, come November 1, millions of New Yorkers will lose access to the nutrition assistance they need to feed themselves and their households — and our economy will be hurt as businesses throughout the food supply chain, including farmers and small businesses, feel the residual effects. Governor Hochul is calling on Secretary Rollins to use her power to fund SNAP and prevent a public health crisis.
“As the GOP government shutdown continues, thousands of New Yorkers are at risk of losing their SNAP benefits come November 1,” Governor Hochul said. “I am calling on the Trump administration to guarantee these essential funds so that New Yorkers can continue to put food on the table, and I urge Washington Republicans — including the seven from New York — to actually stand up for their constituents, come to the negotiating table and end this uncertainty and chaos.”
The Governor’s letter comes as SNAP access has already been attacked by the Big Ugly bill, which is anticipated to strip over 300,000 New York households of their SNAP benefits.
Governor Kathy Hochul today slammed Washington Republicans for sending health care costs skyrocketing for 140,000 New Yorkers. As the GOP refuses to extend the existing enhanced premium tax credits, New Yorkers who rely on the ACA subsidies for affordable, quality coverage are now being notified that their health insurance premiums will increase by an average of 38 percent next year – an average annual increase of nearly $1,400 for individuals and $3,000 for couples. This news comes as New Yorkers are preparing for open enrollment, set to begin November 1.
“Republicans in Washington have made it clear – they don’t care about New Yorkers’ health care,” Governor Hochul said. “It’s shameful. By refusing to extend the Affordable Care Act tax credits, they are turning their backs on their constituents and ripping away access to affordable, quality health care. Republicans in Congress need to do the right thing and extend these credits that make health insurance for New Yorkers more affordable.”
Given the magnitude of federal funding reductions enacted under H.R.1, which are now compounded by the GOP shutdown and the expiration of the enhanced premium tax credits, no single state, including New York, will be able to provide funding to offset these losses.
The Governor is calling for Congressional Republicans to make the right choice and extend Enhanced Premium Tax Credits that help make insurance more affordable for New Yorkers.
Regional Breakdown of Increased Monthly Health Care Costs:
Region
Average Monthly Cost Increase For a Couple ($)
Average Monthly Cost Increase For a Couple (%)
New York City
$211
38%
Mid-Hudson
$206
31%
Long Island
$219
32%
Capital Region
$231
33%
Western New York
$267
38%
Central New York
$256
43%
Finger Lakes
$248
42%
Mohawk Valley
$270
49%
Southern Tier
$265
48%
North Country
$253
44%
Statewide
$228
38%
New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said,“I thank Governor Hochul for standing up for New Yorkers who rely on the Affordable Care Act’s enhanced premium tax credits to keep their health care costs affordable. These are hardworking everyday people who deserve affordable health insurance. The start of the open enrollment period is fast approaching and without immediate action at the federal level, the threat of increased premiums is quickly becoming a reality. Allowing these enhanced premium tax credits to expire will be devastating for hardworking New Yorkers who will be forced to choose between paying for food, rent or paying for the health care they need to survive.”
Governor Kathy Hochul today called out Washington Republicans for cutting critical safety and security funding for New York’s mass transit system. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) had been slated to receive $34 million in federal Transit Security Grant Program funds, which support essential counter-terror and transit security functions. Last week, lawmakers were notified that the MTA was to be the only agency of 21 applicants nationwide to not receive federal security dollars via this program.
“Keeping New Yorkers safe, from our streets to our subways, is my highest priority,” Governor Hochul said. “Since 9/11, New York has relied on federal support to ensure that our transit system has the counterterrorism resources it needs to keep millions of riders safe every single day. The shocking actions of Washington Republicans to slash these funds and defund the police put New York City at risk. We will not tolerate these cuts; New York will take every action available to us — including the courts — to ensure the MTA gets this critical funding to keep millions of riders safe.”
The Transit Security Grant Program was started after 9/11. Administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), these grants support critical functions to keep mass transit systems safe from security threats. The MTA carries a significant portion of the United States’ mass transit riders, with over 6 million daily trips taken on Metro-North, the Long Island Rail Road, and New York City Transit. In addition to approximately $12 million which would go to the NYPD, the MTA had planned to utilize this year’s grant funding to support the following public safety and counter-terror investments:
Two cybersecurity projects, extending cyber visibility into MTA’s key systems, and a cyber lab to develop protections and vet operational technology systems.
The procurement and deployment of approximately 330 tactical cellular cameras to replace & expand upon current unsecure offline devices in a cost-effective manner.
The expansion of MTA weapons of mass destruction chemical detection system across 9 subway lines and a commuter rail terminal.
The TSA mandated frontline security awareness training of 16,000 MTA employees.
374 deployments of MTAPD counterterrorism teams.
The procurement of 3 MTAPD counterterrorism coordination and response vehicles.
The installation of several hundred cameras, access control points, and laser intrusion detection systems at a major subway complex.
“What the federal government is doing to us is a stark moment of hypocrisy, literally threatening our ability to keep these operations safe, our ability to protect public transit riders compromised,” Governor Hochul said during a press conference. “Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem is trying her very best to slash $35 million in funds for security on subway system–a person who swore an oath, as we all did, to protect Americans.
“Clearly defunding police without justification has no rational other than to punish blue states like New York. Of the 20 regions that applied for security funding, New York is the only one that has been denied.”
Governor Hochul chided the seven Republican New York members of Congress who pretend to “back the blue” and be the party of “law and order” for not standing up against these cuts.
Just this week, Attorney General Pam Bondi, deflecting from questioning from Senate Democrats on the Oversight Committee, repeated the meme that Democrats want to defund police. But it is Trump, her Department of Justice and Department of Homeland Security that are defunding police and public safety in cities and states led by Democrats.
“We are the #1 terror target in America – not just 9/11, but countless cases have thwarted. We are safer because of the invested dollars from federal, city and state together. That’s what is in jeopardy – our safety compromised.”
NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch said, “The NYPD’s counterterrorism operations are essential to keeping people safe both above ground and below ground on our subways. Withholding these critical funds from the busiest transit system in the country is a profound mistake, and one that will make New York City’s subways meaningfully less safe. Counterterrorism operations – and public safety in general – cannot be politicized, and I thank Governor Hochul for her efforts to ensure the NYPD has the resources it needs to protect New Yorkers.”
Tisch said that eight terror plots against the New York City subway system have been foiled since 9/11.
Following initial reporting that the MTA would not receive Transit Security Grant Program funding, the Office of the New York Attorney General filed suit in the Southern District of New York, which issued a Temporary Restraining Order barring FEMA from executing the cuts. To date, FEMA has not formally notified the MTA that their funding has been restored.
New York State and the NYPD continue to make significant investments in subway safety. These investments, which support an ongoing surge of NYPD officers in the subway system — including overnight train patrols announced by Governor Hochul in her 2025 State of the State address — have succeeded in reducing transit crime to historic lows in 2025. In 2022, Governor Hochul directed the MTA to install cameras in all 6,000 of its subway cars, which it completed last year. To further enhance safety, this year, the MTA began installing brighter, safer LED lights in all 472 subway stations as well as platform edge barriers to improve customer safety at 100 stations throughout the system.
Subway crime in September was down 31 percent from September 2024, and year-to-date, crime is down 4.3 percent compared to 2024. This summer was the safest summer in the subway since 2009, with major crimes down nearly 10 percent from 2024. Felony assaults in the transit system were down in September, and were down every month this summer when compared with the same month last year.
“Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, MTA has made huge progress on every front – safety, reliability and ridership,” MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber said. “It’s truly strange that Washington keeps spinning stories about subway crime, but then defunds the NYPD and MTA cops who patrol the system.”
MTA Chief Security Officer Michael Kemper said, “I can’t overstate the importance of this grant funding in reinforcing and advancing our counterterrorism initiatives. It significantly enhances our operational capabilities, all with the goal of providing a safe and secure transit environment for our riders and workforce — a responsibility we take seriously every single day.”
Last week, Governor Hochul successfully fought to restore $187 million in critical counterterrorism and homeland security funding cuts which had been planned by the Department of Homeland Security. These unprecedented cuts would have had a direct impact on public safety agencies throughout the state.
Here’s the deal: New Yorkers will hardly notice a government shut down because the trump administration has effectively cut off funding, has already effectively shuttered agencies and government services, canceled investments, fired so many federal workers and experts so that important agencies like Social Security, Medicare and the IRS are barely able to function. (Unlike President Biden whose biggest investment legislation like the Bipartisan Infrastructure Act, sent 2/3 of funding into Red states – for which he got no credit.) Now trump and the MAGA Republicans are barreling toward their wet dream of repealing Obamacare without actually having to go through the process of voting, while shoving a budget down the throats of Americans that will upend health care and public health – moving back to making access to health care a privilege, not a right.
After cutting Democrats out of actual budget negotiations for months, their claim to just pass the CR and have weeks more to negotiate is pure deception, they are blaming Democrats for the shutdown by lying (as usual) that Democrats want “Cadillac health benefits for illegal immigrants.” Not at all. Democrats are fighting to prevent the hike in health insurance premiums coming as soon as this month – a 60-year old couple earning $85,000 will see their health insurance premium increase to $27,000 – making insurance unaffordable. This is part and parcel of a trump administration “whole of government” plan to make Americans weaker, sicker, poorer, and if possible die off sooner rather than be a financial burden.
Moreover, Trump has already defied the Constitution and clawed back Congressional appropriations, while Republicans have proven to be untrustworthy. The Democrats have learned their lesson and heard their constituents who are pleading for them to stand up to this lawless, cruel administration.– Karen Rubin, news-photos-features.com
Governor Kathy Hochul and New Yorkers rallied today to call out President Trump and Washington Republicans for turning their backs on Americans and shutting down the federal government. After bending the knee to Trump’s reckless trade war and devastating Big Ugly Bill, Republicans in Congress are once again abandoning their constituents to enact further pain and chaos at the behest of the Trump Administration.
“After voting to gut food assistance and healthcare for millions of New Yorkers, Republicans in Congress – including seven members from New York – are once again recklessly siding with Donald Trump to shut down the federal government. Republicans were given another chance to stand up for their constituents, yet they chose to leave town rather than work in good faith to avoid a government shutdown,” Governor Hochul said. “The GOP shutdown will have devastating effects on workers, small businesses and families throughout our state. Washington Republicans need to do their damn jobs, actually stand up for the people they serve, and come to the table to end this shutdown.”
Trump and Congressional Republicans have already inflicted pain on New York. Their agenda:
Strips 1.5 million New Yorkers of their health coverage
Puts 300,000 New Yorkers at risk of losing SNAP benefits
Burdens hospitals with over $3 billion annually in uncompensated care costs
Slashes $8 billion from the State health system per year
Threatens an $11 billion hit to overall economic activity, including agriculture and food industries, due to the loss of SNAP benefits
And this shutdown will cause even more destruction:
With more than 115,000 federal employees in New York State, tens of thousands will be furloughed, while essential federal employees, including air traffic controllers and TSA employees, will be forced to work without pay
Pauses or delays in the processing of applications for Social Security, veterans benefits, and other federal benefits
Critical programs, such as SNAP and WIC, are at risk of running out of funds and pausing benefits in the event of an extended shutdown
Threatens funding for Head Start programs across the state, jeopardizing childcare and early education for thousands of New York families
Hospitals across the state will be left waiting for federal reimbursements
Creates uncertainty for hundreds of thousands of families and seniors with housing vouchers or that reside in public housing who will be worried whether their rent will be paid
Farmers left without emergency aid while facing detrimental trade policies
Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins said, “Today’s government shutdown is the direct result of ongoing chaos in Washington and a lack of leadership. This shutdown will have a rippling effect, and it is the Republican Party who must be held responsible, including the seven GOP members of Congress from New York, and the party infrastructure here at home that enables them. This is not about smart governance, this is about their insensitivity to the cruelty and pain they are inflicting on their fellow Americans. This shutdown will force workers to go without paychecks, seniors to go without food, veterans to go without healthcare, and countless communities to suffer in numerous ways because of their political games. While here in New York, we will continue to do everything in our power to stand up for our people. The truth is that the effects of this shutdown will be devastating, and no state will have enough resources to undo every wrong that Washington Republicans are committing. I implore New York’s Republican Representatives to stop enabling this cruelty, to stand up for America, and to put people over party. The people of New York, and this country, deserve nothing less.”
State Senator Toby Ann Stavisky said, “I know how many working families depend on basic needs—putting food on the table, having health care they can count on, and having access to housing they can afford. President Trump, meanwhile, is more concerned with escalators, fake science, and Jimmy Kimmel more than the millions of New Yorkers about to lose their healthcare and SNAP benefits. Republicans control both houses of Congress, and this reckless shutdown robs families of security. We must hold them accountable for preferring chaos over common sense.”
State Senator Liz Krueger said, “This MAGA Shutdown is just the latest example of the damage being done to regular New Yorkers by Donald Trump’s policies that put his billionaire donors first and the American people last. While Democrats in Washington are standing up for families about to lose their health insurance, Republicans are doing their utmost to take it away and make life harder, all while Trump’s reckless flailing drives up inflation and puts the economy on the edge of recession. Enough is enough.”
New York State AFL-CIO President Mario Cilento said, “I want to thank Governor Hochul for consistently demonstrating the kind of leadership we urgently need, a stark contrast to the void of leadership in Washington. To be clear, this shutdown and all the pain it will cause lies squarely on the Administration and Congressional Republicans. Their calculated, cruel, and chaotic decisions will harm every American as healthcare costs soar. In addition, this will lead to the loss of jobs for countless dedicated public servants, whom we deeply respect and appreciate, and put at risk the vital services they provide to the American people. We need united leadership that will bring people together and prioritize the needs of everyday working people. The Union Movement in New York State stands together. We will fight this outrageous assault on working people with all the strength of our collective resolve.”
DC37 Executive Director Henry Garrido said, “Our members are the backbone of this city and this country — dedicated public workers who care for the sick, educate our children, keep our streets safe, and ensure our communities thrive. President Trump’s reckless government shutdown disrespects the very people who make this nation work. Shutting down the government is not leadership — it’s a failure to value working families and protect them from harm. At DC 37, we stand united with all public workers across this country. We demand respect, dignity, and an end to using our livelihoods as political pawns. Social justice is a union issue — and this injustice will not go unanswered.”
32BJ SEIU President Manny Pastreich said, “The Republicans who control the House, Senate and White House are playing with the health and livelihoods of millions of Americans. Over 22 million Americans are about to see their health care premiums skyrocket by an average of 75 percent because Republicans will not extend Affordable Care Act premium tax credits, and direct and contracted government workers are at risk of losing their much-needed paychecks. 32BJ SEIU represents approximately 2,400 hard-working federally contracted security officers, office cleaners, and food service workers across multiple states and D.C. – workers who would bear the brunt of a Republican-created government shutdown. Not only do 32BJ members earn less than direct federal employees, but they also would be ineligible to receive backpay. A government shutdown would turn their lives upside down, forcing many to risk eviction, have their utilities turned off and leave them unable to feed themselves and their families. In New York, we represent hardworking security officers and cleaners at the Statue of Liberty, the Federal Reserve and other federal offices who would be impacted.
State Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal said, “Donald Trump and his minions recklessly shut down the federal government, and its ordinary New Yorkers who will pay the price. As Trump holds the federal budget hostage and demands cuts to vital health care funding, nearly 3 million New Yorkers face losing access to the SNAP benefits that provide them groceries, New York federal courts may be unable to administer justice, New York housing project approvals may grind to a halt because of a housing loan application freeze, New York small businesses may face closure because they are unable to obtain federal loans, New York travelers may face undue delays at airports because of staffing shortages, and the 16 million annual visitors to New York national parks and historic sites will be shut out. All this to say nothing of the nearly 185,000 federal workers in New York who may go without pay. I stand with Governor Hochul and other elected officials to demand that Donald Trump and his cronies stop selling out New Yorkers and re-open the government as soon as possible.”
State Senator Roxanne J. Persaud said, “Putting politics over people with a reckless shutdown threatens the health, food security, and livelihoods of millions of New Yorkers. This is a cruel betrayal of working families, and we should not stay silent while our communities are left to suffer.”
State Senator Peter Harkham said, “In just nine months, President Trump and the Republicans in Congress have inflicted immeasurable damage to the health, safety and security of New Yorkers. Their chaotic and cruel governance ignores the rule of law and serves the ultra-rich while life becomes more precarious each day for too many statewide. True to their character, the administration and its allies are already blaming everyone except themselves for the wreckage they will be causing and lives being severely impacted with a government shutdown.”
State Senator Brian Kavanagh said, “The reckless, destructive actions of the Trump administration and Republican majorities in both houses of Congress over the past nine months have threatened the housing stability, healthcare, and food security of countless Americans. Their decision to shut down the federal government will only cause more pointless harm. I am proud to stand with Governor Kathy Hochul and our colleagues here in New York to oppose these destructive actions and to work to ensure that the government we’ve been elected to lead continues to provide critical resources and offer solutions to the big problems we face.”
State Senator John Liu said, “After slashing healthcare funding in the Big Ugly Bill and terrorizing immigrants across the country with ICE attacks, President Trump’s Republican-controlled government is doubling down on its reckless and dangerous behavior by shutting down the government. This Republican-led shutdown will have devastating impacts on the institutions, programming, and services affecting all New Yorkers, from our hospitals to our farmers and families struggling to make ends meet. It’s abhorrent that New Yorkers, along with working people across the country, are being forced to pay the price for the GOP’s chaos and disorder.”
State Senator Shelley B. Mayer said, “A government shutdown will have significant adverse consequences for New Yorkers and Americans across our country. We need to be clear: to avoid a shutdown, there needs to be an agreement that protects New Yorkers from the disastrous impacts of the Trump agenda. And yet so far, the Administration will not agree to such an agreement. The Trump Administration and Congressional Majority have spent the last nine months pursuing an agenda that harms all New Yorkers ––stripping Medicaid coverage from 1.5 million New Yorkers, cutting SNAP benefits that feed thousands of our neighbors, threatening funding for our education system, and tearing apart immigrant families. A government shutdown will only cause further harm. I urge our Republican colleagues who represent New York to step up and reach a meaningful agreement that protects New Yorkers from this imminent harm.”
State Senator Jeremy Cooney said, “Because of reckless decisions in Washington, New Yorkers are suffering devastating consequences. More than 1.5 million New Yorkers have already lost access to health care. Nearly 3 million more are at risk of losing SNAP benefits, hospitals are strained, and farmers are being denied emergency services. Our communities deserve better, and we won’t stop fighting until they get exactly that.”
Assemblymember Rebecca A. Seawright said, “As Chair of the Committee on Aging, I am deeply concerned about the devastating impact this reckless shutdown will have on older New Yorkers. Seniors across our state depend on SNAP, housing assistance, and access to health care to live with dignity. Stripping away these lifelines is not only irresponsible — it is cruel. I stand with Governor Hochul and my colleagues in calling out Trump and Washington Republicans for putting politics over people and endangering the health, safety, and well-being of millions, especially our most vulnerable neighbors.”
Assemblymember Andrew Hevesi said, “President Trump and Washington Republicans, including New York’s GOP delegation, have led our country to the brink of a disaster. The last nine months have been a failure of leadership, and now as their party argues over petty grievances, millions of vulnerable New Yorkers will suffer. Today, the cost of their inability to govern will be 2.8 million New Yorkers losing SNAP benefits; hundreds of thousands of women and children left without the WIC nutrition program; tens of thousands of federal workers going without pay; and countless hospitals and farms facing financial ruin. Congressional Republicans must stay in Washington until they reach a deal that keeps the government funded and open, and does not destabilize access to healthcare, or food and nutrition programs.”
Assemblymember Linda B. Rosenthal said, “For someone who boasts about knowing the art of the deal, Donald Trump has proven completely feckless in running the government. We are just nine months into Trump’s presidency and the federal government has already shut down, millions are bracing for the loss of food assistance and over one million New Yorkers are preparing for the loss of their health insurance. Donald Trump and his Congressional puppets have made it clear that they have no interest in serving the needs of the American people, just using their power to benefit themselves and their billionaire friends. New Yorkers, and voters across the country, will remember this when Congressional elections are held next year. I am glad that Governor Hochul is once again fighting back and protecting New Yorkers against the dangers of this administration.”
Assemblymember Ron Kim said, “This federal administration has already cut funding for vital programs that keep New Yorkers safe and healthy, and a shutdown of the government for any length of time will cause devastating harm to countless people. I stand with Governor Hochul in urging our leaders in Congress to pass a funding measure that ensures the government can continue providing its indispensable services to all Americans while protecting their health care and other essential benefits.”
Assemblymember Michaelle C. Solages said, “The Trump Administration is gutting services, and Republicans in Congress are cheering it on with a reckless shutdown. Healthcare, SNAP, and WIC are lifelines, not political toys. If they keep choosing Trump over their own constituents, families will pay the price. I stand with Governor Hochul in demanding these funds stay protected.”
Assemblymember Harry B. Bronson said, “The attacks on the American people from President Trump and his administration have now come to a head with the federal government shutting down. I am proud to stand with my democratic colleagues at all levels of government to protect New Yorkers’ healthcare, jobs, and safety. This shutdown is the fault of President Trump and his accomplices. Their unwillingness to negotiate a fair budget and their commitment to eliminating healthcare for so many will have devastating financial impacts on our friends, families, and neighbors. Thank you, Governor Hochul, for your leadership to support New Yorkers when our President will not.”
Assemblymember Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn said, “President Trump and Washington Republicans are once again putting politics over people with this reckless shutdown. Here in Brooklyn, where so many families are already struggling, and now millions shall stand to lose food assistance, health care, and housing support. These cuts would be devastating for women, children, immigrants, New Yorkers who rely on SNAP and working families. I stand with Governor Kathy Hochul and my colleagues to demand an end to this crisis and protect our most vulnerable communities.”
Assemblymember Latrice Walker said, “If the government shutdown goes beyond a week, the WIC program will likely run out of money. It’s the nation’s signature nutrition program for low-income mothers and babies, servicing more than 440,000 New Yorkers – including constituents in my district. A prolonged shutdown would also cause nearly 3 million New Yorkers to lose their SNAP benefits. Housing vouchers will be delayed, putting people’s stability at risk. The shutdown will have a devastating impact on the most vulnerable Americans – a sadly predictable continuation of cruelty coming from President Trump and the GOP-controlled Congress. I urge lawmakers in Washington to come to an agreement before irrevocable damage is done to people who need the most help.”
Assemblymember Alicia L. Hyndman said, “This shutdown is not just reckless; it’s deeply harmful. New York families are bearing the brunt of Washington Republicans’ political maneuvering, with millions at risk of losing food assistance, health coverage, and housing support. I stand firmly with Governor Hochul and my Democratic colleagues in calling out this failure of leadership. We were elected to protect our constituents, not to play politics with their lives. It’s time to reject chaos and recommit to fighting for the dignity and stability every New Yorker deserves.”
Assemblymember Manny De Los Santos said, “As an Assembly Member for the 72nd District, I stand with Governor Hochul and New York Democrats in condemning Donald Trump and Washington Republicans for causing a government shutdown. This is more than politics — it hurts working families in Northern Manhattan and across New York State. Cutting health care, food, and housing support will devastate our communities. Families deserve stability, not chaos, and I’ll keep fighting to make sure every New Yorker has the resources they need to thrive.”
Assemblymember Al Taylor said, “A government shutdown isn’t an abstract headline, it’s an immediate hit to families in our communities who depend on food assistance, health care, and housing support. When Washington Republicans choose chaos over solutions, New Yorkers pay the price. From Harlem to Inwood, we know what’s at stake: it rips food off tables, puts health care out of reach, and takes stability away from families right here in New York. I am proud to stand with Governor Hochul in demanding that people’s needs come before partisan politics.”
Assemblyman Charles D. Fall said, “As a legislator committed to protecting and improving the lives of New Yorkers, I am appalled by the reckless, callous, and reprehensible actions of Republicans in Washington. This government shutdown is nothing short of immoral—it is cruelty disguised as politics from people who are supposed to serve the public. It renounces millions of Americans who rely on essential programs like SNAP, WIC, and housing vouchers—programs that prevent families from going hungry and keep them from sleeping on the streets. It denies emergency aid to hardworking farmers who feed this very nation. Rather than serving people Republicans swore an oath to protect, they have chosen political gamesmanship that inflicts real harm on vulnerable communities. Standing alongside this manufactured crisis is not leadership—it is cowardice, negligent, and a betrayal to the American people.”
Assemblymember Alex Bores said, “Trump’s disastrous agenda has harmed millions of New Yorkers and this shutdown will only exacerbate the problems he has caused. With Congress controlled by powers that would harm our state, New Yorkers should feel confident that their state government will continue to provide the everyday services they rely on, with or without help from Washington.”
Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar said, “The lives of millions of New Yorkers are at risk today due to an ideological game of brinkmanship playing out in Washington. Continuity of government is essential to our democracy, yet this shutdown is taking food out of the mouths of our fellow New Yorkers, pulling the plug on our healthcare system, picking the pockets of women and children, and giving the boot to people needing housing assistance. For the sake of New York and our nation, we must rise above the extremism permeating politics, and orient our moral compass to common sense, unity, and problem-solving. I am proud to partner with Governor Hochul to deliver real solutions to uplift New Yorkers. Together, New York will stand up to Washington extremists and be the epicenter of the unifying, practical leadership our Nation needs.”
Assemblymember Grace Lee said, “Trump and Republicans in Washington are once again putting politics before people. This reckless shutdown will harm millions of New Yorkers, stripping away food assistance, health care, and critical support for women and children. I stand with Governor Hochul to hold Republicans accountable for the damage they are causing to our communities.”
Assemblymember Nikki Lucas said, “A government shutdown is not only reckless, but completely irresponsible on the part of Washington Republicans and President Trump. This is just another example of them putting the people of these United States last. I urge House Democrats to stay strong and continue fighting back. The residents of district 60 in East New York, Brownsville and Canarsie, like communities across our city and country, are relying on all of us to be responsible stewards of their present and future.”
Assemblymember Larinda C. Hooks said, “This shutdown is more than a government issue, it’s a family issue. It means parents worried about whether they can take their child to the doctor, seniors questioning if they can afford their medicine, and neighbors wondering how they’ll put food on the table. In times like these, our communities deserve stability and peace of mind. As a democrat, I will stand firm and not bend to the will of the Washington Republicans who intend to take away the people’s ability to survive.”
Assemblymember Tony Simone said, “Donald Trump and Congressional Republicans have betrayed the American people. This stunning refusal to ensure our hard earned tax dollars be used to keep our hospitals and farms running, to keep children from going hungry, to keep housing aid from the most vulnerable among us, all in the name of tax cuts for the wealthy and an ego-driven trade war, is shameful and outright theft from our pockets.”
Assemblymember John Zaccaro, Jr. said, “President Trump’s government shutdown is nothing short of a dereliction of his duty and his oath of office. New Yorkers, many of whom live in the Bronx, have already been devastated by the President’s reckless agenda. Now, the President wants to shut down the government—forcing nearly 2.8 million New Yorkers to lose SNAP benefits, putting 442,000 women and children who rely on WIC at risk, delaying housing vouchers, stalling hospitals waiting for federal reimbursements, and leaving farmers without emergency aid. The President is willing to decimate the working class and shut down the government simply to hand his billionaire and millionaire cronies a tax break.”
Assemblymember Micah Lasher said, “Trump and Congressional Republicans have hijacked the federal government and stripped it for parts. They’ve robbed 1.5 million New Yorkers of their health coverage and taken food stamps from hundreds of thousands more — all while making billions for Donald Trump and his family and giving tax breaks to Trump’s rich friends. They now seek to pass the most unfair, unconscionable spending bill we have ever seen. No one who is a patriot should go along for this ride,” said Assemblymember Micah Lasher. “We in New York believe in making sure working families have the basic necessities, not bigger yachts for Trump and his pals. We demand that Congress put an end to the cruelty and the corruption.”
Assemblymember Emerita Torres said, “New Yorkers deserve leaders who will fight for them, not politicians who undermine their livelihoods. A federal government shutdown will strip vital services and programs from millions of New York families, including healthcare and food programs, as well as veteran support. As a former federal worker who was furloughed during Trump’s first government shutdown, I know firsthand the stress and financial uncertainty these reckless political stunts can cause. While Republicans continue to follow Trump’s dangerous agenda, I stand with the Governor and New York Democrats in putting our communities first.”
Department of Homeland Security Cuts Critical Counterterrorism and Homeland Security Funding in New York State by 86% or $187 Million
Funding Directly Supports Intelligence Operations, Transit Hub Security, as well as Equipment Purchases, Training and Preparedness Efforts for Counties, Sheriffs and Police Departments
New York Joins With Multi-State Coalition To Seek Injunction on Dangerous Cuts to Critical Counterterrorism and Homeland Security Funding
Governor Kathy Hochul today called out President Donald Trump and U.S. Department of Homeland Secretary Kristi Noem following $187 million in cuts to critical counterterrorism funding in New York that directly impacts the safety and security of New Yorkers, reducing New York’s allocation by 86 percent to $30 million. These unprecedented cuts will have a direct impact on public safety agencies throughout the state, including a projected $100 million cut to the NYPD, a projected $15 million cut to the FDNY, a projected $13 million cut to Joint Task Force Empire Shield, no projected funding for any of New York State’s 12 certified bomb squads and millions of dollars in cuts that directly support counties, sheriffs and police departments.
“A Republican administration literally defunding the police is the height of hypocrisy — and walking away from the fight against terrorism in the number one terrorist target in America is utterly shocking,” Governor Hochul said. “Any New York House Republican who doesn’t immediately act to get this funding restored is complicit in making their constituents less safe.”
In response, and through a partnership with New York State Attorney General Letitia James, New York joined a multi-state coalition of 11 other states in suing to stop the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) from illegally depriving states from hundreds of millions of dollars under the federal Homeland Security Grant Program for refusal to support the administration’s immigration agenda.
Additionally, the Governor issued a letter to Secretary Noem demanding transparency and accountability on these cuts, as well as their full restoration.
The funding, provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency through its Homeland Security Grant Program (HSGP), supports local law enforcement and regional homeland security preparedness efforts, including intelligence operations, mass gathering security, planning, equipment purchases, and training critical to sustaining and improving community prevention, protection, response and recovery capabilities. HSGP is comprised of three separate grants –– the SHSP, UASI and Operation Stonegarden. Under SHSP and UASI, 80 percent of the funding is allocated to local entities while 20 percent is reserved for state projects.
Following an extended delay, DHS released the 2025 Notice of Funding Opportunity for HSGP giving states the ability to access this critical funding, however despite being the nation’s number one terrorist target, New York’s allocation was cut by 40 percent ($87 million). Then, without notice nor explanation, New York was cut an additional $102.7 million when DHS issued the awards on September 27.
These unprecedented cuts were contained within the State Homeland Security Program (SHSP) and Urban Areas Security Initiative (UASI) portions of the program and will have a direct impact on public safety agencies throughout the state, including:
A projected $100 million cut to the NYPD including deep cuts to intelligence analysts and the NYPD’s counterterrorism unit.
A projected $15 million cut to the FDNY including deep cuts to interoperable communication and radiological response.
A projected $13 million cut to Joint Task Force Empire Shield which is the program that funds the New York National Guard presence in transit hubs.
There is no projected funding this year for any of New York State’s 12 certified bomb squads.
Millions of dollars in cuts that directly support equipment purchases, training, exercises and preparedness efforts for counties, sheriffs and police departments.
UASI Cut
In New York, UASI funding is reserved for jurisdictions within the New York City metropolitan areas to sustain and enhance critical anti-terrorism and intelligence sharing programs.
Under the FY 2025 awards, New York is set to receive $22,069,395 in UASI funding, representing an 85.9 percent cut from 2024’s award of $156,131,176. Allocations are determined by New York’s Urban Area Working Group which is comprised of New York City, Nassau County, Suffolk County, Westchester County, the City of Yonkers and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.
The funding at risk, based on 2024 funding levels, is as follows:
2024 UASI Local Allocations
Specific Allocation by Jurisdiction:
Nassau County
$2,314,373
Suffolk County
$2,314,373
Westchester County
$2,314,373
City of Yonkers
$2,314,373
Port Authority of NY & NJ
$9,313,368
New York City
$118,451,583
SHSP Cut
In New York, SHSP funding is directed to every county and the City of New York to support planning, equipment purchases, training, and other homeland security initiatives.
Under the FY 2025 awards, New York is set to receive $5,624,924 in SHSP funding, representing a 90.8 percent cut from 2024’s award of $61,229,940. Funding distributions are formula based and ensure funding goes to every county in New York State.
SHSP Cuts by County
Jurisdiction
FY2024 Total Award Amount
PROJECTED FY2025 SHSP Award Amount
PROJECTED Overall Cut from FY2024-FY2025
Albany County
$945,873
$89,585
-$856,288
Allegany County
$59,750
$5,659
-$54,091
Broome County
$311,551
$29,508
-$282,043
Cattaraugus County
$136,570
$12,935
-$123,635
Cayuga County
$132,303
$12,531
-$119,772
Chautauqua County
$170,713
$16,169
-$154,544
Chemung County
$145,106
$13,743
-$131,363
Chenango County
$93,892
$8,893
-$84,999
Clinton County
$128,035
$12,126
-$115,909
Columbia County
$76,821
$7,276
-$69,545
Cortland County
$51,215
$4,851
-$46,364
Delaware County
$85,356
$8,084
-$77,272
Dutchess County
$574,070
$54,371
-$519,699
Erie County
$1,879,306
$177,993
-$1,701,313
Essex County
$102,428
$9,701
-$92,727
Franklin County
$59,750
$5,659
-$54,091
Fulton County
$72,553
$6,872
-$65,681
Genesee County
$98,160
$9,297
-$88,863
Greene County
$98,160
$9,297
-$88,863
Hamilton County
$42,678
$4,042
-$38,636
Herkimer County
$76,821
$7,276
-$69,545
Jefferson County
$110,964
$10,510
-$100,454
Lewis County
$46,946
$4,446
-$42,500
Livingston County
$128,035
$12,126
-$115,909
Madison County
$106,696
$10,105
-$96,591
Monroe County
$963,711
$91,275
-$872,436
Montgomery County
$102,428
$9,701
-$92,727
Nassau County
$1,820,278
$172,402
-$1,647,876
Niagara County
$418,135
$39,602
-$378,533
New York City
$30,135,400
$2,854,183
-$27,281,217
Oneida County
$226,103
$21,415
-$204,688
Onondaga County
$650,892
$61,647
-$589,245
Ontario County
$170,714
$16,169
-$154,545
Orange County
$924,546
$87,566
-$836,980
Orleans County
$89,625
$8,489
-$81,136
Oswego County
$166,445
$15,764
-$150,681
Otsego County
$93,892
$8,893
-$84,999
Putnam County
$234,731
$22,232
-$212,499
Rensselaer County
$478,934
$45,361
-$433,573
Rockland County
$635,907
$60,228
-$575,679
Saratoga County
$247,535
$23,445
-$224,090
Schenectady County
$479,505
$45,415
-$434,090
Schoharie County
$81,089
$7,680
-$73,409
Schuyler County
$46,946
$4,446
-$42,500
Seneca County
$51,215
$4,851
-$46,364
St. Lawrence County
$157,910
$14,956
-$142,954
Steuben County
$110,965
$10,510
-$100,455
Suffolk County
$1,180,103
$111,770
-$1,068,333
Sullivan County
$179,249
$16,977
-$162,272
Tioga County
$59,750
$5,659
-$54,091
Tompkins County
$98,160
$9,297
-$88,863
Ulster County
$230,463
$21,828
-$208,635
Warren County
$68,285
$6,467
-$61,818
Washington County
$68,285
$6,467
-$61,818
Wayne County
$145,106
$13,743
-$131,363
Westchester County
$1,367,888
$129,555
-$1,238,333
Wyoming County
$59,750
$5,659
-$54,091
Yates County
$34,143
$3,234
-$30,909
TOTAL
$47,511,840
$4,499,939
-$43,011,901
Senator Charles Schumer said,“Putting the safety of New Yorkers at risk by ripping away vital anti-terror funds is a new low for Donald Trump. New York remains a top terror target, and it is reckless and dangerous to slash the vital federal support law enforcement needs to be prepared and stop attacks. As threats of international and domestic terror persist and lives hang in the balance, Trump’s FEMA is choosing political games over public safety. These cuts must be immediately reversed. The safety of New Yorkers depends on it.”
Senator Kirstin Gillibrand said,“The Homeland Security Grant Program is a critical source of funding to keep New Yorkers safe and improve our preparedness, prevention, protection, response, and recovery capabilities across the state. I am deeply concerned that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security has cut $189 million in counterterrorism funding for New York State, and I am committed to working with the governor to fight for the restoration of this funding.”
“The federal government’s decision to play politics with critical counter-terrorism funds betrays our state’s law enforcement and emergency response teams who work hard every day to keep New Yorkers safe. I joined a coalition of my fellow attorneys general to sue DHS to stop these destructive funding cuts and I thank Governor Hochul for her commitment to protecting New Yorkers,” New York State Attorney General Letitia James said,
Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy said,“I want to thank Governor Hochul for speaking out on an issue that couldn’t be more important: keeping our communities safe. The decision by President Trump’s Department of Homeland Security to pull funding from local police and critical counterterrorism programs is deeply troubling. These grants save lives and ensure our law enforcement have the tools they need. Public safety has to come before politics, and I stand with the Governor in calling on Washington to do the right thing and restore this funding.”
Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins said, “It is outrageous that in the shadow of mourning those we lost on 9/11, the Trump administration is slashing Homeland Security and police funding to New York State by 90%. Here in Westchester County we will see our funding drop from $1.367 million to just $130,000 because of these reckless cuts. Homeland security isn’t an abstract idea for New Yorkers — it is our lived reality. Now more than ever, we need our congressional representatives to honor the promise they made to 9/11 victims and their families – to never forget, and to keep New York safe. Keeping New York safe means investing in homeland security, we call on the federal government and our congressional delegation to restore this critical funding immediately.”
“Cutting nearly $900,000 from funding that supports our local law enforcement partners is reckless and dangerous,” Albany County District Attorney Lee C. Kindlon said. “This money funds training and critical infrastructure that makes our communities safer and more prepared to respond to threats, and this is certainly not a time to pull back on readiness.”
Schenectady County Legislature Chair Gary Hughes said, “This funding is essential to supporting our Emergency Management Office—from fire and EMS coordination to hazmat response and emergency preparedness training that brings together public health, schools, hospitals, and other community partners. Cuts of this magnitude put critical public safety and preparedness efforts at risk—not just here in Schenectady County, but across the entire state.”
“I am concerned by the decision to make significant cuts to counterterrorism efforts. Our agency receives nearly $2.4M a year in federal grants that are passed through NYS to MCSO,” Monroe County Sheriff Todd K. Baxter said. “Grants that support our bomb squad, traffic safety, crimes against children, human trafficking, narcotics investigations, the purchase of specialized vehicles and equipment, as well as training exercises. However, most importantly, funding that is necessary to perform our work trying to identify and prevent acts of targeted violence. These are crucial dollars for essential programs. At a time of increased challenges and risks to public safety, we believe these cuts will create significant gaps in our emergency preparedness.”
Despite losing $1.6 million in public safety funding, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, was notably missing. The Republican, who has bent over backwards to appease Trump and attack Democrats, is seeking reelection based on standing for fighting crime and lowering taxes (his record proves otherwise). Blakeman is challenged by Democrat Seth Koslow, County Legislator.
Amidst Uncertainty at the CDC, Governor Takes Action To Protect Access to Life-Saving Vaccines
Department of Financial Services Guidance Strongly Encourages Commercial Insurers To Continue Covering 100 Percent of the Costs of Recommended Vaccines
In light of continued attacks on science and health care from the federal government, Governor Kathy Hochul today announced new action to protect vaccine access across New York State. The New York State Department of Financial Services (DFS) is issuing guidance to insurers encouraging them to continue covering all vaccines recommended by The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) as of today’s date. ACIP has long been responsible for issuing recommendations on vaccine use to control disease in the United States, and insurers typically provide coverage of vaccines based on ACIP recommendations. Today’s publication also reminds insurers of previously issued guidance requiring insurers to cover COVID vaccines for children. In addition, the guidance urges insurers to encourage employers and other entities who provide self-funded health care coverage to continue covering the cost of vaccines. Today’s action builds upon Governor Hochul’s Executive Order allowing pharmacists to administer COVID vaccines to ensure New Yorkers can receive the updated 2025-26 COVID shot.
“New Yorkers deserve to have the resources available to get vaccinated if they choose to, and Republicans in Washington should not be able to take that from them,” Governor Hochul said.“Vaccines not only prevent people from getting sick — they can save lives and prevent the spread of infectious diseases, especially as we approach our colder seasons and our children are back in schools.”
New York State Superintendent of Financial Services Adrienne A. Harris said,“Public health experts have been clear that vaccines are an essential tool in combating the spread of infectious diseases and lowering the cost of health care. The cost of a vaccine should not be a barrier to this critical care. DFS strongly encourages insurers to continue to provide comprehensive vaccine coverage for all New Yorkers.”
“In 2024, we lost 2,775 New Yorkers related to COVID, that is enough to fill 7 jumbo jets,” said New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald. “Vaccines are the best protection from serious illness and hospitalization. I want to thank Governor Hochul for her leadership in taking swift action to ensure that vaccines remain accessible and affordable for families across our state. By safeguarding coverage and availability, we can prevent illness, save lives and keep our communities healthy as we head into the colder months.”
New York is also working in coordination with — and helping to lead — a regional multi-state public health collaboration among Northeast states, which brings together public health leaders across the region to develop evidence-based recommendations and approaches on vaccination, disease surveillance, and emergency preparedness. The collaborative also supports state public health laboratories in sharing resources and expertise to strengthen regional readiness.
450,000 New Yorkers At Risk of Losing Healthcare Due to GOP Cuts
Meanwhile, Governor Hochul is raising alarms that 450,000 New Yorkers are in jeopardy of losing health care. Cuts imposed by Washington Republicans are expected to have a significant impact, with an anticipated nearly $13 billion affecting New Yorkers healthcare system. Additionally, approximately 1.5 million New Yorkers are projected to lose their health insurance coverage, while over 300,000 households are expected to lose some or all of their SNAP benefits.
“For months, I’ve warned that Washington Republicans’ devastating cuts would rip health care away from New Yorkers,” Governor Hochul stated. “Today, we have no choice but to confront that reality.
“Nearly 1.7 million New Yorkers rely on the [state’s] Essential Plan for health care – working moms and dads, families living paycheck to paycheck, people doing everything right and still struggling to get by. The Big Ugly Bill forced through by Donald Trump and Republicans puts every single one of them at risk of losing their care. I refuse to stand by while Washington punishes vulnerable New Yorkers. That’s why today, I’m taking action to preserve health care for 1.3 million people by shifting their coverage to our state’s Basic Health Program, allowing us to access emergency funds that would otherwise not be available.”
But, she added, even with these steps, 450,000 New Yorkers are at risk of losing their care.
“That includes 127,000 people represented by New York’s seven Republican Members of Congress, who are abandoning their own constituents to hand out tax breaks for the wealthy,” Hochul declared. “It doesn’t have to be this way. If Republicans give a damn about protecting health care for their constituents, they can act right now to pass a three-year delay of HR1’s cuts to health care eligibility and keep every New Yorker on the Essential Plan covered. And in the meantime, the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services needs to work with us to identify more low-cost health insurance options for New Yorkers.
“There is still work to do here in New York. Many of the 1.7 million people on the Essential Plan are working part time, including at big retailers and other companies that deliberately limit hours to avoid covering health care. It’s time for these employers to stop passing the cost on to taxpayers and start providing coverage for their workers.
“The message from across our state is clear: we can act together and stop these devastating impacts before it’s too late.”
Assembly Speaker Carl E. Heastie stated, ‘”Losing the Essential Plan is a devastating blow to hard working New Yorkers brought on due to the draconian measures implemented by the federal government in their Big Terrible Bill. Representatives Elise Stefanik, Mike Lawler, Nick LaLota, Nicole Malliotakis, Andrew Garbarino, Claudia Tenney and Nick Langworthy voted to give their billionaire donors the gift of tax breaks and tax cuts, and now hardworking New Yorkers will have to bear the fallout because of their actions.
“This will have ripples across our healthcare system, putting more stress on already overburdened emergency rooms and causing almost half a million people to lose access to healthcare. Make no mistake, this will affect every single New Yorker, and no amount of obfuscating and gaslighting by our Republican members of Congress can change that. I will continue to work with my partners at all levels of government to try and find solutions to protect New Yorkers from the cruelty that the administration in Washington continues to push.”
