With Trump doing everything he can to weaken cybersecurity defenses – actually dismantling the Cyber Safety Review Board (CSRB) and heavily downsizing key units within the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the FBI, cutting hundreds of personnel focused on election security and critical infrastructure protection – and then blaming Minnesota’s Governor Tom Walz for Iran’s cyberattack against eight states’ water infrastructure, New York State Governor Kathy Hochul just announced $9 million in cybersecurity grants to help protect 153 water systems statewide. – Karen Rubin, editor@news-photos-features.com
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced more than $9 million in grants awarded to 153 local government projects statewide through the Strengthening Essential Cybersecurity for Utilities and Resiliency Enhancements (SECURE) grant program. This funding will support communities in their efforts to bolster their cybersecurity posture against increasingly sophisticated and dangerous cyber threats while strengthening services that millions of New Yorkers rely on every day.
“New York is taking action to protect our critical water infrastructure from cyberattacks that could disrupt services and threaten public health and safety,” Governor Hochul said. “As we have seen with recent malicious cyberattacks on water systems across multiple states, these threats are real and escalating. These investments give local governments the tools they need to strengthen their defenses, safeguard essential services, and keep delivering safe, reliable water to New Yorkers.”
SECURE grants and no-cost technical assistance from the Environmental Facilities Corporation will help local governments implement the State’s new minimum cybersecurity standards for drinking water and sewer systems. The grants will fund local cybersecurity assessments and implementation, helping water systems build stronger, more secure operations.
This funding is in addition to Governor Hochul’s landmark five-year $3.75 billion clean water investment in the 2027 Enacted Budget, reflecting her comprehensive, whole-of-government approach to protecting and modernizing critical water infrastructure.
Water infrastructure is essential to public health, safety, economic stability, and national security, making it an attractive target for cyberattacks. As systems increasingly rely on digital and internet-connected technologies, the need for cybersecurity safeguards continues to grow.
Strengthening cybersecurity helps reduce the risk of a cyberattack that could disrupt utilities for residents and threaten the water supplies that drive local economies, industries and tourism.
The complete list of recipients and additional program information is available on EFC’s Cybersecurity Hub, where communities can access centralized training and resources and request a one-on-one consultation. The Community Assistance Teams are available to provide no-cost guidance and tools to help water and wastewater systems implement cybersecurity best practices.
New York State Acting Chief Cyber Officer Michaela Lee said, “The recent surge in cyberattacks targeting water systems nationwide is a stark reminder that the threats facing our critical infrastructure are growing, and so must our investments in defending it. Governor Hochul’s proactive $9 million in grants will empower local governments across New York to swiftly harden their defenses, build resilience, and secure the essential services that our communities rely on every day.”
Environmental Facilities Corporation President and CEO Maureen A. Coleman said, “Governor Hochul has made protecting New York’s critical infrastructure a priority, and these grants reflect that commitment by providing water systems with resources to mitigate their cybersecurity vulnerabilities before threats become disruptions. EFC is proud to support the Governor’s vision by helping communities assess risks, implement solutions, and build more resilient water infrastructure.”
Nation-Leading Investments
New York State continues to increase its nation-leading investments in water infrastructure, providing $3.8 billion in financial assistance for local projects in State Fiscal Year 2025 alone, including $1.1 billion in grants. Governor Hochul’s transformational $3.75 billion water infrastructure investment will bring total State grants to more than $10 billion since 2017.
Trump Administration’s Proposed Rollbacks Open Door for Dangerous Individuals To Obtain Firearms and Make it Harder to Hold Bad Actors in Firearms Industry Accountable
Governor Takes Immediate Action to Preserve Public Safety by Prioritizing State Police Inspections of Firearms Dealers Linked to Crime and Expanding Scope of Interstate Task Force on Illegal Guns
Governor Will Explore Legislative Actions to Require In-Person Sale of Firearms
State Launches Public Awareness Campaign Targeting Gun Dealers to Remind Them of New York State Laws
Note: The Republican opponent for New York Governor, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, opposed Governor Hochul’s gun safety regulations after the Trump Supreme Court overturned the state’s century-old gun law, and said he wanted to ease access to gun licenses and people should be able to carry guns into religious centers. Governor Hochul, during her term, has worked to reduce the number of guns imported into the state from states with lax gun laws, joining a regional consortium. Trump Administration – and his Attorney General designee Todd Blanche – have declared their love of a Second Amendment without any restrictions or regulation despite the United States having the highest rate of gun violence in the world. An average of 117 to 122 people die from gun-related injuries each day in the United States, according to recent data from the Pew Research Center and public health tracking, a rate that is 26 times higher than peer “developed” countries. This total includes suicides, homicides, accidents, and law enforcement actions.–Karen Rubin/editor@news-photos-features.com
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced actions in response to the Trump Administration’s proposed rollbacks that would make sweeping and dangerous changes to federal firearms regulations. Earlier this year, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) announced changes to more than 30 rules that will make it easier for dangerous individuals to obtain firearms and harder to hold bad actors in the firearms industry accountable. In response, New York State is taking action by increasing enforcement and education and exploring legislative changes that will blunt the effect of many of these changes and preserve public safety.
“Time and time again, we see the Trump Administration concede to the gun lobby, and these rollbacks are yet another giveaway that will have devastating and dangerous effects across the country,” Governor Hochul said.“ While the federal government paves the way for increased firearm trafficking and putting guns in the hands of those who should not have them, New York State is taking action to blunt their efforts by bolstering our nation-leading gun laws and committing to closing the loopholes that put lives in jeopardy.”
Firearm dealers operating in New York must obtain licensure at the federal and state levels, but action against licensees happens almost exclusively at the federal level. The ATF’s proposed rollbacks are a clear abdication of their responsibility to hold bad actors accountable and keep firearms out of the hands of dangerous individuals, requiring states to increase their enforcement against bad actors.
Governor Hochul announced the following actions alongside the New York State Police and members of New York’s gun safety coalition, including representatives from Everytown for Gun Safety, Moms Demand Action, Giffords, Brady United and New Yorkers Against Gun Violence:
Immediate Actions
Prioritizing State Police Inspections of all Firearms Dealers who are Linked to Crime Guns
New York will step up oversight and enforcement to ensure that its state-licensed dealers are complying with the rigorous standards imposed by law. NYSP will prioritize onsite inspections of all dealers who are determined to be the source of crime guns and will work with the Office of the Attorney General to increase enforcement on dealers who are repeatedly traced to crime guns when appropriate.
Expanding the Scope of the Interstate Task Force on Illegal Guns
Originally convened by Governor Hochul in 2022, New York’s Interstate Task Force on Illegal Guns includes local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and Vermont. The scope of this Task Force will expand to combine resources, share information, and develop strategies to combat increased public safety threats. Governor Hochul has directed Task Force members to reconvene to develop a coordinated interstate response to the ATF rollbacks and commit to regular information sharing related to crime guns located in one state that were purchased in another state.
Launching a Public Education Campaign Targeted at Firearm Dealers
New York State is launching a public awareness campaign and increased enforcement operation targeted specifically at gun dealers to remind them that many of New York’s strong laws remain in effect notwithstanding the federal regulations and must be followed despite the federal rollbacks. The campaign, which will feature direct mailers and emails to firearm dealers and firearm licensing officials, will focus on ATF rollbacks that state law prevents from having practical effect. This will be developed by the Division of Criminal Justice Services in close coordination with the New York State Police.
Legislative Actions
Requiring the In-Person Sale of Firearms
The ATF rule changes would allow for online sales of firearms. At the start of the next legislative session, Governor Hochul plans on introducing legislation to amend the penal law to require in-person sale of firearms. This law change would align firearm sales with ammunition sales, which are required to be done in-person.
Since taking office, Governor Hochul has committed more than $4 billion to public safety initiatives and doubled funding to combat gun violence in New York communities. Governor Hochul also partnered with 11 other states to intercept weapons along the I-95 corridor, enhance Red Flag Laws to keep guns away from individuals that are a risk to themselves and others, and strengthened New York’s concealed carry laws in response to the Supreme Court’s reckless Bruen decision. As part of the FY 27 Enacted Budget, Governor Hochul sustained record-level investments in prevention, intervention and enforcement, including addressing emerging threats as 3-D printed guns and DIY machine guns.
“Here in New York, I’ve been laser focused on this since I was elected back in 2022,” Governor Hochul stated. “Top priority. Crime was off the charts back then. I said, “It is unsustainable. We cannot keep this, this violence in our streets, the bloodshed, it has to stop. Today.” We now have gun violence at an all-time low in New York State. All-time low. It’s not an accident. It’s about investments in public safety and police, historic investments. Smart, targeted law enforcement — seizing illegal guns at record rates, going after emerging threats like those 3D-printed ghost guns. We banned those. We banned those. You know what we also did in our budget? We also banned the sale of the 3D printers in the state of New York, so even if you wanted to make your kitchen table into a munitions factory, you can’t do that anymore without facing down the law of the State of New York. Okay? So that was just done a couple months ago.
“But also, I believe one of the reasons we’re safe is because we’ve made investments and support our advocates in the streets…
“New Yorkers are safer today, more than they were just a few short years ago. But I’m not going to let the rogue cops in Washington undermine our progress.
“My administration will make sure our laws are enforced, and today, I’m announcing that New York State Police will ramp up on-site inspections at all gun dealers — you are on notice — that are linked to firearms and recovered at a crime…
“A background check is everything, it’s so critical. Also, mental health screening — we need to know. There’s people who should not have a gun in their hands, and the federal government doesn’t give a damn. But we do, we do. So you’re not going to be able to give someone a gun, sell a gun to someone without a mental health screening, because you’re going to be in for a rude awakening. This is New York. Welcome to a state that actually likes keeping people alive. We like keeping people alive in this state. So if you don’t follow our laws, oh, boy, consequences. Our police will work directly with our Attorney General, Tish James, and our District Attorneys to shut you down…Follow the laws or we’re shutting you down. And we’re not stopping at our own state borders. No, in New York, 80 percent of the guns recovered at crime scenes originate in other states — 80 percent, 80 percent. So to help fill the void, what I’m going to do is reconvene our Interstate Task Force on illegal guns,” Hochul said.
State Senator Zellnor Myrie said, “As the federal government rolls back common-sense public safety measures, New York is stepping up to protect our communities. I was proud to write the first state law in the nation taking on reckless and irresponsible gun dealers, and today’s actions build on our work to hold bad actors accountable. We will always put safe streets, subways, schools and neighborhoods ahead of the gun industry’s profits.”
Assemblymember Michaelle C. Solages said, “Our safety should never be compromised, especially not because of weakened federal oversight. As Washington rolls back basic and commonsense firearm regulations, New York is stepping up to protect our communities and to keep guns out of the hands of those who pose a danger. These actions will reinforce our state’s longstanding commitment to preventing gun violence while at the same time respecting responsible gun ownership. I am grateful to Governor Hochul for being clear-eyed and proactive on this issue.”
Assemblymember Monique Chandler-Waterman said, “As the Co-chair of the Subcommittee on Anti-Gun Violence of the NYS BPHA Caucus I stand with my colleagues along with the Governor to do all we can to advance gun safety legislation. We will not stand idle while the federal government rolls back common sense gun safety law. We will continue in the effort to keep our communities safe by keeping illegal guns off the streets, increasing interstate partnership, enforcement, and the education on best gun safety practices. In addition we will continue to advocate for more investments in wrap around services for our youth and families. That includes expanding access to safe spaces like Community Center Concepts in schools, afterschool programs, and stronger support for survivors. We understand that public safety requires common sense legislation and investments in prevention through youth programs, community spaces, and services that help survivors heal and rebuild.”
Senior Firearms Industry Advisor at Everytown for Gun Safety and Former Associate Assistant Director of Field Operations at the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms and Explosives Marianna Mitchem said, “These changes proposed by the ATF prioritize gun industry profits over human lives. They will exacerbate our national gun violence epidemic and undermine public safety in communities across New York State. I want to thank Governor Hochul for the steps New York is taking to protect its communities from gun trafficking and I want to encourage all local and state leaders to step up and follow her example. It is deeply disappointing that the agency I dedicated my career to has decided to cater to the gun industry rather than properly regulate it. But I am hopeful that with actions like those announced today, our communities will not be the ultimate victims of this Administration’s dangerous decisions.”
GIFFORDS Executive Director Emma Brown said, “The Trump administration says it’s tough on crime, but its record says otherwise. They are de-funding law enforcement, dismantling commonsense gun safety rules, and making our communities less safe. With these ATF rule changes, the administration’s actions threaten to undermine years of progress in reducing gun violence, meaning it’s more important than ever for state leaders to take bold action and fight to protect public safety. We’re grateful to Governor Hochul for her continued leadership on public safety, and her continuing the fight to keep New Yorkers safe.”
New Yorkers Against Gun Violence Executive Director Rebecca Fischer said, “At a time when the ATF is rolling back critical gun safety regulations that help prevent illegal gun trafficking and keep firearms out of dangerous hands, Governor Hochul is making it clear that New York will not lower its standards. While Washington weakens protections, New York is strengthening them. These proactive actions will help protect New Yorkers, reinforce our nation’s strongest gun safety laws, and send a clear message that public safety comes before politics. New York has proven that strong gun safety laws save lives, and we’re proud to stand with Governor Hochul as she continues to lead the nation in preventing gun violence.”
Brady: United Against Gun Violence President Kris Brown said, “The proposed changes to the ATF will categorically put communities across the country in danger. They are not technical adjustments — they are sweeping structural changes that will reshape how guns are bought and sold in America, a country where gun violence is the number one killer of kids. Rolling back common-sense gun violence prevention measures will make it easier for prohibited purchasers to obtain guns, harder for law enforcement to solve and prosecute gun crimes, and increase the likelihood for ‘mass casualty events.’ We cannot stand idly by and let this happen. We thank Governor Hochul for taking action with us to prevent fallout from these proposed changes and to keep New York communities safe.”
Bronx District Attorney Darcel Clark said, “I commend Governor Hochul for taking bold action to protect New Yorkers from gun violence. The proposed changes to federal firearm regulations threaten the progress our state has made in keeping our communities safe. Allowing firearms to be sold online without requiring an in-person transaction undermines responsible gun safety measures and puts lives at risk. I support the Governor’s effort to codify the requirement for in-person firearm sales into New York State law. In the Bronx, we know all too well the pain and devastation that has struck so many families. Just last weekend, an innocent 12-year-old child was tragically killed after being caught in the crossfire. We must continue advancing thoughtful, commonsense legislation that strengthens public safety, protects our neighborhoods, and helps prevent more families from experiencing trauma and loss from gun violence.”
Richmond County District Attorney Michael McMahon said, “At a time when Staten Island and New York City have witnessed historic decreases in homicides and acts of gun violence, the federal government’s decision to roll back firearm safety regulations is the wrong decision at the wrong time and needlessly jeopardizes public safety. These sweeping changes would weaken background checks, make it easier for dangerous individuals to obtain and traffic deadly firearms, and undermine the progress we have made in the fight against gun violence. Simply put, the ATF’s proposed rollbacks are bad for public safety and for the communities my office is tasked with protecting, and I commend Governor Hochul for her swift efforts to counteract these dangerous policies and protect New Yorkers across our State from the deadly scourge of gun violence.”
Manhattan Borough President Brad Hoylman-Sigal said, “I’m extremely grateful to Governor Hochul for her plan to stop the flow of illegal guns into New York through the infamous ‘Iron Pipeline.’ While Donald Trump is making it easier for trafficked weapons to hit the streets of New York City, Governor Hochul is fighting back at the state level. The Governor will blunt the impact of Trump’s dangerous changes to our gun laws at the federal level by prioritizing State Police inspections of all firearms dealers linked to crime guns, expanding the scope of the Interstate Task Force on Illegal Guns, aligning requirements for firearm background checks with ammunition requirements, and exploring a number of legislative fixes in Albany. The result will be a safer Manhattan and New York City.”
Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson said, “Gun violence and the proliferation of guns in our neighborhoods is a public health crisis that is affecting communities across our state that requires our immediate action and attention. Every day, families in the Bronx are forced to confront unimaginable grief, and far too many of our young people are growing up in fear instead of opportunity. Despite this White House administration’s attempts to roll back progress, I am grateful to Governor Hochul for her leadership and commitment to keeping our streets safe. Together, we must continue fighting to protect our children, support impacted families, and ensure that every youth in our city can thrive without the shadow of gun violence.”
Earlier this year, Governor Kathy Hochul launched a statewide public service announcement (PSA) campaign to promote secure firearm storage and raise awareness about safe storage options and how to prevent firearm misuse. Led by the New York State Office of Gun Violence Prevention (OGVP) within the Division of Criminal Justice Services and developed in partnership with Brady: United Against Gun Violence and the Ad Council, the campaign is part of New York’s comprehensive approach to strengthening public safety and reducing firearm deaths and injuries.
Biden-era gun regulations, instituted when gun violence hit new peaks during the coronavirus pandemic, as well as Hochul’s efforts to reduce gun violence have been successful.
“New York continues to make historic progress reducing gun violence and making our communities safer,” Governor Hochul said. “At the same time, we know too many firearm tragedies happen in homes and involve family members, children and loved ones. This public education campaign will empower gun owners with information and resources on how to securely store their firearms, helping protect their families and prevent needless injuries and deaths.”
Governor Kathy Hochul announced that the New York Power Authority (NYPA) approved $13 million in funding to support clean energy workforce development across New York State. The funding, approved by the NYPA Board of Trustees, includes $3 million to be directed to six workforce development programs that will equip more than 450 New Yorkers with the training, job placement resources and technical skills needed for careers in New York’s growing clean energy economy. The awards also include $10 million will support the New York State Department of Labor’s (NYSDOL) expanded training and retraining initiatives to prepare workers for employment in clean energy careers.
“Our clean energy future depends on the people who will build it, and we’re committed to preparing them for the good‑paying careers of tomorrow,” Governor Hochul said. “This $13 million investment will open doors for New Yorkers, expanding access to valuable training, strengthening workforce pathways and helping communities across the state benefit from the momentum fueling our clean energy economy.”
New York is leading the nation in developing a green economy, with nearly 185,000 clean energy jobs already created. Building further on that statewide progress, the NYPA Board of Trustees approved funding awards to the following organizations and institutions:
Energy Infrastructure Partners (EIP) – $520,000: EIP designs and delivers energy efficiency and clean energy programs for utilities and public agencies. The funding will support building operations and energy efficiency training for staff members of the Settlement House, a NYC based nonprofit.
Laborers’ International Union of North America (LiUNA) Local 17 – $500,000: LiUNA Local 17 in the Hudson Valley will use the funding to strengthen pre-apprenticeship pathways in the construction trades, offering foundational training and support services to prepare participants for union careers.
Laborers’ International Union of North America (LiUNA) Local 210 – $540,000: LiUNA Local 17 in Buffalo will use the funding to support a pre‑apprenticeship program that provides certification‑based training for participants.
Both LiUNA programs build on proven models to expand access to skilled labor opportunities.
Last year, NYPA allocated more than $1 million in funding support to LiUNA’s existing workforce training initiative, stimulating the expansion of its pre-apprenticeship program, which prepares members of disadvantaged communities for careers as union construction craft laborers in Buffalo, the Hudson Valley and the Capital Region.
Northland Workforce Training Center – $500,000: Northland Workforce Training Center provides workforce training and career pathways for Western New Yorkers pursuing jobs in advanced manufacturing and energy. The funding will support training for participants in HVAC and building maintenance certificate programs at the Center’s new Clean Tech Lab, along with wraparound services including career coaching, transportation assistance and job placement support.
NYPA has supported Northland since its inception, initially providing $15 million in funding to support its development in 2016. In 2023, NYPA awarded Northland more than $1.1 million to support the development of the center’s state-of-the-art auto tech lab, and donated a 2017 Chevy Volt, an electric vehicle (EV) charger and a mix of associated EV shop tools to Northland for use in its clean energy center.
Renaissance Technical Institute (RTI) – $500,000: RTI, a New York City-based nonprofit dedicated to empowering underserved communities through free vocational education and training, will train participants in energy‑efficient systems and electrification. NYPA, in collaboration with NYSDOL, previously allocated $500,000 in funding to RTI in East Harlem to support workforce programming and career development for young adults from under-resourced communities.
State University of New York (SUNY) Canton – $440,000: SUNY Canton will train students through credit‑bearing micro‑credentials in heat pumps, drone operations, and mapping and logistics. The initiative expands access to industry‑aligned clean‑energy training for Northern New York and disadvantaged communities, preparing graduates for high‑quality career opportunities in the clean‑energy sector.
Of the $10 million in funding awarded to NYSDOL approved by the NYPA Board of Trustees, $8 million will support the expansion and development of the Growing the Clean Energy Workforce Training Initiative, which provides grants to organizations for the development or expansion of training programs. The remaining $2 million will be allocated to the NYSDOL Renewable Energy Training Initiative (RETI) program, which supports inclusive clean‑energy workforce development by funding upskilling and reskilling for workers transitioning into clean‑energy roles and by providing essential wraparound services.
New York Power Authority Chairman John R. Koelmelsaid, “By supporting organizations that provide apprenticeships and technical training, NYPA is strengthening New York’s talent pipeline and expanding opportunities for workers in communities across the state to gain the skills needed for high‑demand jobs in the growing clean energy economy.”
New York Power Authority President and CEO Justin E. Driscoll said, “The $13 million in workforce investments will help ensure New Yorkers have the skills required to maintain and expand the state’s clean‑energy infrastructure. NYPA is doing more than simply providing funding; it is delivering real opportunities for New Yorkers by opening vital career pathways in the state’s rapidly growing energy sector.”
Connecting New Yorkers to Opportunities in Clean Energy
The Power Authority’s support for clean energy workforce training stems from a commitment of up to $25 million annually, as outlined in the 2023-24 Enacted State Budget, and largely supports the efforts of the New York State Department of Labor to connect workers to job opportunities in the clean energy economy. Many of the upskilling and training initiatives have a focus on serving those who are traditionally underrepresented, especially within disadvantaged communities.
NYPA actively engages with each community training organization to ensure skills training is matched with in-demand positions and participant success through supportive wraparound services. Additionally, the Power Authority advises on the classroom and hands-on technology curriculum.
Including this round of awards, NYPA has obligated more than $63 million for clean energy training programs, supporting thousands of trainees and more than 45 workforce training organizations statewide.
More information on the Power Authority’s support for clean energy training can be found on its workforce development webpage.
New York State Commissioner of Labor Roberta Reardon said, “Creating clean energy infrastructure is both necessary and an economic opportunity for our state, creating thousands of jobs and strengthening local economies. I applaud Governor Hochul’s commitment to New York’s clean energy future. The New York State Department of Labor stands ready to provide the training and resources necessary to ensure our workforce is prepared to support the state’s clean energy development.”
State Senator April N.M Baskin said, “When we invest in people, we strengthen our economy. These awards will help LiUNA Local 210 and the Northland Workforce Training Center prepare more Western New Yorkers for careers in the growing clean energy economy, opening the door to good-paying jobs while building the skilled workforce our region needs. I thank Governor Hochul and NYPA for continuing to invest in our workforce.”
The New York Power Authority is the largest state public power organization in the nation, operating 17 generating facilities and more than 1,550 circuit-miles of transmission lines. More than 80 percent of the electricity NYPA produces is clean renewable hydropower. NYPA finances its operations through the sale of bonds and revenues earned in large part through sales of electricity. For more information visit www.nypa.gov and follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and Substack.
Governor Kathy Hochul signed her FY 2027 Budget making New York more affordable, keeping New Yorkers safe and expanding opportunity for all. The Governor delivered sweeping measures to lower costs including putting New York on a path to universal childcare, reducing utility costs and delivering energy rebate checks, and bringing auto insurance rates down for drivers. She also implemented a surcharge on luxury New York City second homes, generating much needed revenue for the City without impacting everyday New Yorkers. Additionally, the Governor continues to build on her unprecedented investments in public safety with more than $900 million in funding, measures to crack down on illegal 3D printed guns, and a nation leading package of immigration protections that keep New Yorkers safe.
“Every proposal included in this Budget was a fight for New Yorkers and their future. Working with my partners in the Legislature, we delivered an ambitious agenda that will lower costs for hardworking families, keep New Yorkers safe and create opportunity for all,” Governor Hochul said. “While Washington continues to make life more difficult for New Yorkers, I’m doing everything in my power to make real, tangible progress on the issues New Yorkers are facing and I will always fight for the people who call this great state home.”
Delivering Universal Childcare
Governor Hochul is putting New York State on a pathway toward universal childcare, beginning with committing to investments that will support the delivery of affordable childcare to up to nearly 100,000 additional children.
The Governor’s landmark investment will increase funding by $1.7 billion bringing the total FY27 investment to $4.5 billion for childcare and prekindergarten services statewide.
These investments will:
Make Pre-K truly universal statewide by making funding available to provide high-quality pre-k seats for all four-year-olds in the State by the start of the 2028-29 school year.
Partner with New York City to launch the Mayor’s signature 2-Care program and finally realize the promise of universal 3K access in New York City.
Support counties in building out New York’s First 3 Program providing high-quality affordable childcare to families across the state regardless of income.
Expand childcare subsidies to tens of thousands of additional families.
Support the workforce through early childhood educator preparation.
Launch an Office of Childcare and Early Education to steer the implementation of high-quality, universal childcare for New York families and will work to enhance awareness of the Child Tax Credit to ensure as many New Yorkers as possible benefit from the Governor’s historic expansion of the program that increased the credit from $330 per child to $1,000 annually for children under four.
Tackling Utility Costs
New Yorkers deserve reliable energy at a price they can afford, which is why Governor Hochul is proposing a sweeping set of reforms to modernize the Public Service Law, demanding strict fiscal discipline from utilities and empowering the State to fight more effectively for lower bills.
In her FY27 Budget, the Governor is putting ratepayers first by:
Issuing one-time $1 billion Protecting Our Wallets Energy Rebate (POWER) checks to help provide needed relief. The POWER program will provide $200 to joint filers with incomes under $150,000 and $150 to joint filers with incomes between $150,000 and $300,000. Tying executive pay directly to customer affordability,
Requiring utilities to present a budget constrained option when requesting a rate increase to ensure efficiency and affordability are prioritized,
Ensuring customers do not foot the bill for hidden costs like lobbying, political contributions and unnecessary executive travel.
Allowing for the installation of an “Affordability Monitor” within any utility company when the average residential bills creep too high.
Modernizing the way utility rate cases are reviewed to help keep prices manageable.
Incentivizing the use of smart thermostats to help reduce energy usage and lower bills.
Establishing the RATES commission, bringing together consumer advocates and energy experts to investigate the root causes of surging utility bills, evaluate utility profits, review energy market designs and recommend actionable, transparent reforms.
Pied-à-Terre Tax on Luxury Second Homes in New York City
Governor Hochul’s Budget includes a pied-à-terre tax, a surcharge that will apply to high-value – $5 million or more – second homes within New York City. The tax ensures that those who own luxury properties as their second homes are still fairly contributing towards the funding of essential services like policing or parks that make New York City a global destination.
Given the complexity of New York City’s property tax system, the pied-à-terre surcharge makes accommodations in the short term transition phase for the ways in which different property types are currently valued in New York City, while ensuring the surcharge is applied fairly and immediately to luxury properties. The proposal is expected to generate at least $500 million a year in recurring revenue for New York City without impacting everyday New Yorkers.
Protecting New Yorkers From ICE Overreach
Governor Hochul has enacted a sweeping set of laws to protect New Yorkers against aggressive federal immigration enforcement as part of the FY27 Enacted Budget.
These new laws will expand protections by:
Prohibiting state, local and federal officers from wearing face covering while interacting with the public.
Prohibiting local governments, state and local police and state and local corrections from entering into 287(g) Agreements or similar agreements with the federal government that allow for state and local law enforcement personnel and facilities to be used for civil immigration enforcement purposes.
Establishing a state law under which New Yorkers can bring a lawsuit against federal, state and local government officials for a violation of their constitutional rights.
Prohibiting the use of state and local civilian agencies and public school resources, including employee time, for immigration enforcement activities.
Prohibiting civilian state, local and school employees (including higher education and K-12) from permitting access to any non-public area of a state-owned or operated facility to immigration authorities without a judicial warrant, meaning any state or municipally owned, or operated facility including housing accommodations, parks, childcare facilities, preschools, hospitals, schools, dorms, healthcare facilities, community centers, libraries and shelters, cannot grant or facilitate access to any non-public areas of their facilities to immigration authorities without a warrant.
Ensuring immigrant students can access education, codifying the right to a free public education regardless of immigration status.
Record Investments in Public Safety
Since taking office, Governor Hochul has invested more than $3 billion in public safety initiatives. The funding has provided record support for local and state law enforcement that has contributed to gun violence reaching record lows, reduced subway crime and combated pandemic-era surges in motor vehicle and retail thefts.
This Budget adds more than $900 million to those record investments and strengthens public safety by:
Prioritizing New Yorkers’ safety throughout the transit system. The Governor secured an additional $77 million to support the deployment of NYPD officers across the subway system and $25 million for expanding the Subway Co-Response Outreach Teams initiative to respond more quickly to individuals in acute distress.
Establishing a pilot program for New York City requiring the installation of Intelligent Speed Assistance devices in the vehicles of so-called “super speeders,” drivers with a documented pattern of flouting speeding laws and putting New Yorkers at risk.
Advancing a comprehensive approach to both prohibit risky drone use and expand responsible use of drones as first responders by creating a crime for dangerous drone use and flying in and around restricted areas, and authorizing the use of detection and mitigation efforts by qualified law enforcement officers.
Protecting safe access to worship — creating a new crime for knowingly and intentionally interfering with a person seeking to enter or exit a place of religious worship or acting in a way that makes a person within 50 feet of a place of worship fear for their safety.
Stopping Illegal Homegrown Guns
Governor Hochul has passed the strongest gun laws in the nation and made record investments in gun violence prevention, resulting in New York having the fewest shooting incidents statewide in 2025 in recorded history.
Governor Hochul’s FY27 Enacted Budget will:
Require first-in-the-nation minimum safety standards for 3D printers sold in New York to be equipped with basic technology that prevents the unlicensed, illegal production of lethal firearms and firearm parts.
Require the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services to lead a task force of experts to recommend regulations that will ensure New Yorkers are protected from these dangerous weapons. Following the implementation of the resulting regulations, state law will allow for recourse against any actor who sells a 3D printer in New York without equipping it with such technology.
Criminalize the unlawful possession, sale, or distribution of blueprints that allow the printing of illegal guns and gun parts, and the manufacture of 3D-printed firearms.
Prohibit gun manufacturers and firearms dealers from selling pistols that can be quickly and easily converted into machine guns using common tools.
Lowering Car Insurance Rates for New Yorkers
Fraud is a major driver of elevated auto insurance premiums. Increasingly sophisticated actors stage elaborate accidents, designed to allow for “jackpot” payouts from insurance companies or jury awards. These schemes imperil the safety of honest drivers, cause property damage, and increase rates for drivers across the state. Increasingly, scams go beyond just one bad actor at the wheel and are orchestrated by organized criminal rings.
The Governor’s plan will:
Cap payouts for drivers engaging in criminal behavior at the time of the incident, including uninsured motorists, drunk drivers, and drivers in the act of committing a felony.
Better define what actually constitutes a ‘serious injury’ so that damages for pain and suffering or emotional distress are reserved for those able to objectively demonstrate that they have suffered a serious injury.
Ensure that if a driver is found to be mostly at fault for causing an accident, they cannot claim outsized payments for damages.
Prevent insurance companies from exorbitantly raising rates by setting a legal threshold that prevents excess profits and returns savings to consumers.
Create new regulatory safeguards to prevent insurance companies from raising rates without seeking express approval from the Department of Financial Services.
Protect consumers by prohibiting insurance companies from setting rates based on extraneous, personal factors like homeownership status, occupation, education level or zip code.
Enable prosecutors to seek criminal penalties against any individual responsible for organizing a staged accident, not just the particular individual behind the wheel.
These measures come in addition to the Governor’s whole-of-government approach to combatting fraud by tasking DFS, DMV, DCJS and NYSP with a more proactive and coordinated approach to enforcement.
The Governor’s plan also includes transparency for auto insurance policyholders by requiring insurers to notify policyholders about rate changes.
Protecting Vulnerable Renters and Homeowners
High prices and unscrupulous landlords are driving too many tenants out of their homes and making it harder for vulnerable homeowners to make ends meet. Governor Hochul has secured agreements to help address these issues in the FY27 Budget including:
Protecting renters by clarifying anti-harassment laws.
Enacting stiffer criminal penalties for landlords who engage in systemic harassment of rent-regulated tenants across multiple buildings or who are repeat serious offenders of existing anti-harassment laws.
To ensure that housing remains affordable for both seniors and New Yorkers with disabilities who are living in rent-regulated housing and Mitchell-Lama affordable housing, Governor Hochul’s final FY27 Budget:
Increases income eligibility limits for New York’s Rent Freeze Program for both the Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption and Disability Rent Increase Exemption from $50,000 to $75,000.
Authorizes raising the eligibility for the Senior Citizen Homeowners’ Exemption and Disabled Homeowner’s Exemption from $50,000 to $75,000.
Adds notice requirements to make more elderly and disabled rent-regulated tenants aware of the SCRIE/DRIE rent freeze programs.
Consistent with current practice, New York City and other communities may opt into both the SCRIE/DRIE and SCHE/DHE programs.
Improving Transparency in the Residential Property Insurance Market
Homeowners and housing providers across the state are contending with escalating home insurance premiums and shrinking options for coverage, which threaten the affordability of New York’s single and multi-family homes. While single family home insurance rates in New York are on average lower than many other states — thanks to New York’s tightly regulated market — year over year increases in insurance rates still threaten to sap money from families’ pocketbooks and make multi-family housing less and less affordable for homeowners and renters. For years, New Yorkers have not been properly informed about the reasons for rising premiums. This year, the Governor’s reforms will increase transparency for consumers and give the Department of Financial Services (DFS) a better understanding of the multi-family market with new data from insurers.
Governor Hochul is tackling this problem head-on by:
Requiring insurers to provide detailed information to DFS on how they price policies for multifamily residential buildings.
Increasing transparency for home insurance as well as auto insurance by requiring insurers to notify policyholders about rate changes.
Protecting New York Farmers from the Disruption of Federal Tariffs
Agriculture is a cornerstone of New York’s economy, yet the federal government’s tariff policy has threatened the competitiveness of our farmers. Federal actions have driven up the cost of essential resources — like seeds, fertilizer, and necessary machinery — while creating market instability. Although the USDA recently announced a national assistance program, it is fundamentally flawed for New York since it leaves specialty crops and the dairy sector with no meaningful support.
To relieve farmers from the adverse impacts caused by federal tariffs, Governor Hochul will:
Create the Agricultural Resiliency Against Tariffs Program, which will provide $30 million in direct payments to New York specialty crop growers, livestock producers, aquaculture, and dairy farmers.
This initiative will quickly distribute much needed support to offset rising costs caused by tariffs.
This program reinforces New York’s commitment to our agricultural community, while safeguarding local jobs and ensuring our farmers have the certainty needed to compete in a volatile global marketplace.
Helping New Yorkers Put Food on the Table
The recent shutdown of the federal government reminded the nation of how precarious our nutrition safety net is and how many New Yorkers contend with food insecurity. In response to the shutdown, Governor Hochul rushed an additional $65 million toward food assistance programs that delivered meals to tens of thousands of New Yorkers in their hour of need. To build on these actions and further reinforce our emergency food system:
Governor Hochul is announcing a $51 million investment in the Department of Health (DOH)’s Hunger Prevention and Nutrition Assistance Program (HPNAP) program, which will help New York’s network of about 2,700 food banks, pantries, and soup kitchens reach more New Yorkers in need. An additional $15 million will strengthen and expand operations, allowing them to reach more people with healthier options.
The Enacted Budget also includes $55 million for the Nourish New York Program, which reroutes surplus agricultural products to those who need them most through the state’s food banks.
Theft of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits is an epidemic across the United States, with hundreds of millions of dollars illegally stolen from families’ EBT cards nationwide using illegal “skimming” devices. Governor Hochul’s FY27 Budget will protect New Yorkers from this predatory behavior by:
Upgrading New York’s EBT cards to secure chip-based technology that makes cards virtually impervious to skimming. While the federal administration tries to strip SNAP benefits from as many New Yorkers as possible and turns a blind eye to criminals taking food from vulnerable families, transitioning to chip-based EBT cards will help safeguard the SNAP dollars that New Yorkers depend on.
The Governor’s plan will also:
Establish New York PLATES, a statewide competitive $10 million grant program for eligible food pantries that will fund capital projects, to increase the capacity of these critical organizations and enable food pantries to safely store, transport and distribute food to more families.
Support localities in expanding free summer meal sites.
No Taxes on Tips for Hardworking New Yorkers
Tipped workers — New York’s bartenders, servers, and deliveristas — are the backbone of the state’s service economy. In jobs that demand long hours and daily dedication, every dollar is hard-won. Governor Hochul is committed to making sure tipped workers can hold on to more of what they earn. The Governor passed legislation that eliminates state income taxes on up to $25,000 of tipped income in tax year 2026, consistent with federal tax guidance.
Governor Hochul’s FY27 Budget builds on her efforts to put more money back in New Yorkers’ pockets. To date, her administration has:
Cut middle-class taxes to their lowest rates in 70 years, ensuring families keep more of the paychecks they earn.
Raised New York’s minimum wage and tied future increases to inflation so a day’s work covers a day’s needs.
Implemented an historic expansion of New York’s Child Tax Credit, also known as the Empire State Child Credit, to provide families up to $1,000 per child under the age of four beginning in 2026, and up to $500 for school-aged children beginning in 2027, substantially increasing the previous maximum of $330.
Made school meals free for every student, saving families $1,600 per child every year and making sure no child goes hungry at school.
Sent Inflation Refund checks to 8.2 million New Yorkers — up to $200 for individuals and up to $400 for families.
Increased the maximum weekly unemployment benefit by $300 a week so people can focus on finding work, not keeping the lights on.
Established a nation-leading birth allowance — the New York State BABY Benefit (Birth Allowance for Beginning Year Benefit) — providing $1,800 to new parents receiving Public Assistance when they have a new baby.
Governor Hochul: “I also would not accept a deal that would compromise affordability for Long Islanders. At a time when everything is going up, we all know the story, I was not going to allow taxes or fares to go up. And that’s why we stood firm for a deal that would not require any additional fare increases or tax increases, period. Full stop. Got it done.”
Hochul: “Now, this contract will ensure that 3,500 Long Island Rail Road employees will be paid fairly for their labor. I want them to know this, I deeply value and respect the hard work they do. They’re out there every single day making sure the job gets done. Their work is critical for the entire region, and they deserve a fair wage.”
Late Monday night, after the first full work day with the Long Island Railroad, the busiest commuter railroad in the country, on strike, Governor Kathy Hochul announced a resolution ending the strike: Here are her comments:
Good evening, everyone. I’m truly pleased to share that the five Long Island Rail Road unions and the MTA were able to come together and reach a fair deal this evening.
Now, negotiations are rarely easy, but I have a lot of respect for the collective bargaining process that unfolded over the last few days. And I always believed that we could reach a good, fair compromise, a contract that achieved two principles: Number one, protecting affordability for Long Islanders and commuters while giving fair wages to the employees. And by working and negotiating together, we have reached that kind of deal.
Now, this contract will ensure that 3,500 Long Island Rail Road employees will be paid fairly for their labor. I want them to know this, I deeply value and respect the hard work they do. They’re out there every single day making sure the job gets done. Their work is critical for the entire region, and they deserve a fair wage.
I also would not accept a deal that would compromise affordability for Long Islanders. At a time when everything is going up, we all know the story, I was not going to allow taxes or fares to go up. And that’s why we stood firm for a deal that would not require any additional fare increases or tax increases, period. Full stop. Got it done.
Now, the Long Island Rail Road service will resume tomorrow at noon, with the full service time, expected in time for the evening rush hour, and yes, in time for the Knicks game. Knicks fans will be able to take the trains to MSG tomorrow in time for game one of the Eastern Conference Finals.
Finally, I want to thank so many people. I want to thank New Yorkers, Long Islanders particularly, who made all the accommodations, who had to work from home, who sacrificed, who had to put up with inconveniences. We are so grateful for their patience and understanding. And for those who helped us weather the storm over the last few days, to their employers who made the accommodations, helped get this done, the elected officials who helped get the word out.
I also want to say, the MTA negotiating team, led by Janno Lieber, did an exceptional job. I want to thank every single one of them. And also the preparations that I came down to see over many days, going to the command centers and talking to the people that were deciding how many shuttle buses, how many trains, how many workers need to be out there greeting people. The job was done like a military operation, and I was very impressed with that, Janno, so I want to thank you and your entire team for anticipating the worst and preparing all of our commuters for a better experience than they would have had otherwise.
I also want to thank our labor leaders, who fought hard for a fair deal, and I respect them for that. They’re looking out for their members. Also, Mario Cilento, the state leader of the AFL-CIO, played an integral role in this process as well. I want to thank, finally, the extra people who showed up every single day to make sure this ran smoothly. We got the deal done. It is a very good night for everyone, and I’m really proud of the work that was accomplished by an extraordinary team and our partners in labor. Thank you.
For the first time in 30 years, the Long Island Rail Road, the biggest commuter rail system in the nation, is on strike, causing havoc across the region, as some 300,000 daily riders have to find alternate ways to get to work.
At a time when the air quality is already bad, the increased traffic and emissions will make it worse.
People who normally have to drive for work, to get to doctor, or some emergency are stuck in traffic, at a time when gas prices are reaching new heights, compounding family financial woes.
You look at the vacant cafes and shops around the train station that are normally bustling with people.
The timing is interesting, aimed at hurting Governor Kathy Hochul who is being challenged by Republican Bruce Blakeman, the Nassau County Executive.
The NICE buses which are under Blakeman’s control, take only 13,000 people from Long Island train stations, depositing them at subway stations in Queens.
A commute that normally takes 40 minutes can take 2 hours.
The timing of the strike – the first in 30 years – is interesting, especially since the MTA put very favorable terms on the table, and the LIRR workers are already the highest paid in the nation.
I would bet Trump is behind the Long Island Railroad strike in order to boost Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, who is the Republican challenging Governor Kathy Hochul and thinks the strike makes Governor Hochul look bad and the pain it will cause the 300,000 daily LIRR riders will result in lots of angry votes against her, because of course you blame the Democrat – except it actually makes Blakeman look impotent.
It also makes it clear that like his idol, Donald Trump, Blakeman is willing to inflict misery and suffering on his constituents in order to benefit himself. The Teamsters, who have supported trump for the unfathomable notion that trump is for workers and for unions (when he has sold workers and unions under the bus at every turn) and that waving the trump flag makes them more patriotic and better Americans than others (radical liberal lunatics who want to be able to afford food, clothing and shelter) are doing this to bolster Blakeman.
Here’s how you know that Blakeman is enjoying seeing Hochul and Long Islanders squirm: he could offer to help organize NICE buses to relieve some of the stress, but instead, uses the opportunity to try to get Hochul to cancel congestion pricing tolls (which he sued to overturn), to be told by Hochul that it is not possible under the federal contract. Instead, the pro-Blakeman NICE unions are urging bus drivers to support the LIRR strikers and not change their schedules to help. (Where were the unions defending the federal workers as they were fired by DOGE?)
But Governor Hochul, while showing respect for unions and workers, has noted that Long Island Railroad workers are already the highest paid in the country, and if the MTA accedes to their fairly outrageous demands, it not only will force a further increase in fares for already hard-pressed Long Islanders, but will trigger similar, unsustainable increases throughout the workforce.
“The LIRR is more stable now than it has been for generations,” Governor Kathy Hochul stated. “The decision by some unions to strike over demands that would threaten that progress is reckless. These unions represent the highest paid workers of any railroad in the nation, yet they are demanding contracts that could raise fares as much as 8%, pit workers against one another, and risk tax hikes for Long Islanders. This is unacceptable. My priority is protecting affordability for riders and ensuring fairness across the workforce.
“The disruption that Long Islanders face starting tonight is the direct result of reckless actions by the Trump Administration to cut mediation short and push these negotiations toward a strike. For weeks, the MTA has attempted to negotiate in good faith and put multiple fair offers on the table that included meaningful wage increases, but you cannot make a deal if one side refuses to engage in good faith.
“Commuters are dealing with unnecessary dysfunction and thousands of union LIRR workers are being forced to go without a paycheck because of decisions made by a small group of union leaders. I stand with LIRR riders and will fight to preserve the long term stability of the MTA. I believe a deal can be done and I urge both the MTA and these unions to return to the table and bargain non-stop until a deal is reached.”
The Long Island Railroad Strike has stranded some 300,000 riders a day, cost millions of dollars of economic activity daily, exacerbated traffic and pollution when air quality is already bad. The Teamsters’ demands would cause fares to increase 8%, and trigger wage and cost increases across the state’s workforce at a time when commuters can scarcely afford it.
Governor Hochul, while showing respect for unions and workers, has noted that Long Island Railroad workers are already the highest paid in the country, and if the MTA accedes to their fairly outrageous demands, it not only will force a further increase in fares for already hard-pressed Long Islanders, but will trigger similar, unsustainable increases throughout the workforce.
Here are Governor Kathy Hochul’s remarks about the Long Island Railroad strike – Karen Rubin, editor@news-photos-features.com
“The Long Island Rail Road is essential. Every day it carries nearly 300,000 commuters and without this service, life on Long Island as we know it is not possible.
“As Governor, I have been proud to make historic investments in the LIRR. Working with the MTA, we increased service by 40%, improved safety for riders and workers, secured the railroad’s fiscal future after the pandemic, and delivered transformative projects like the Main Line Third Track and Grand Central Madison.
“The LIRR is more stable now than it has been for generations. The decision by some unions to strike over demands that would threaten that progress is reckless. These unions represent the highest paid workers of any railroad in the nation, yet they are demanding contracts that could raise fares as much as 8%, pit workers against one another, and risk tax hikes for Long Islanders. This is unacceptable. My priority is protecting affordability for riders and ensuring fairness across the workforce.
“The disruption that Long Islanders face starting tonight is the direct result of reckless actions by the Trump Administration to cut mediation short and push these negotiations toward a strike. For weeks, the MTA has attempted to negotiate in good faith and put multiple fair offers on the table that included meaningful wage increases, but you cannot make a deal if one side refuses to engage in good faith.
“Commuters are dealing with unnecessary dysfunction and thousands of union LIRR workers are being forced to go without a paycheck because of decisions made by a small group of union leaders. I stand with LIRR riders and will fight to preserve the long term stability of the MTA. I believe a deal can be done and I urge both the MTA and these unions to return to the table and bargain non-stop until a deal is reached.”
After the strike was underway, Governor Hochul gave a briefing and discussed what was being done to mitigate the disruption in transportation:
I want to give Long Island Rail Road riders the latest updates on the strike. Let me be clear, I did not want a strike. The MTA did not want a strike. The MTA has put fair offers on the table, in fact, many of them. And so despite that, for the first time in 30 years, the hundreds of thousands of people who rely on the LIRR are without service because of a strike. We all know that the railroad is the lifeblood of Long Island. Without it, life as we know it is simply not possible. The bottom line is: No one wins in a strike. Everyone is hurt — the hundreds of thousands of people who rely on the railroad, and the thousands of unionized workers who are losing out on wages.
I want to speak directly to the men and women of labor at the LIRR: The work you do is absolutely vital. Absolutely. I value your labor, and I believe that you deserve fair wages and benefits. But this strike has put all that at risk. Just three days of a strike would erase every dollar of additional salary that workers would receive under a new contract. We don’t need to be here. Workers deserve better, but also New Yorkers deserve better. That’s why today I’m urging all parties once again to bargain at the table, and to get a deal done.
I also want to give an update to the Long Island Rail Road riders who are wondering about work tomorrow. Now, I’ve been in close communication, I’ve been touring the sites. I’m here at the Operations Control Center to talk to the individuals overseeing the lines that we anticipate the highest volume on tomorrow — you’ll hear more about that from our MTA leadership team — and we have a plan to ensure that essential workers can get into the city during the workday commute.
Now, starting at 4:00 a.m. tomorrow, the MTA will deploy shuttle buses to bring essential workers from across Long Island to subway stations in Queens, and those shuttle buses will be standing by to bring those essential workers back home to Long Island at the end of the day, to Long Island and Queens.
For those in Nassau County who absolutely cannot work from home, there continues to be the option of taking a Nassau Inter-County Express bus directly to the subway connections in Queens. They’ll run extra bus service weekdays during the strike, and we’ve encouraged the county to add additional capacity.
Another option is Citi Field. With the Mets hitting the road tomorrow, you can park there and transfer to the 7 train.
So right here, as I said, in the nerve center of the subway, every day four million New Yorkers rely on this system to get around. This subway system is absolutely vital, even more so tomorrow. And the MTA, as I’ve listened and asked questions, they’re ready to meet the challenge. Extra trains are on standby, and the MTA stands ready to run additional New York City subway service to meet the demand. And for the residents of Eastern Queens, who typically rely on the speed and convenience of the LIRR, the E and A trains are there for you as a great option to get to and from the city at this time.
But let’s face the facts. It’s impossible to fully replace LIRR service. So effective Monday, I’m asking that regular commuters who can work from home should. Please do so. And employers should make every accommodation necessary to allow for remote work. Now, I’ve already directed all state agencies affected to implement telecommuting plans for the state employees who typically commute in from Long Island. But also, we have to maintain essential government services. Now, everyone knows these alternatives are not business as usual. But unfortunately, they’re the direct result of this strike.
Let me be clear: This strike would not have been possible if the Trump Administration had not taken the highly unusual step last fall of releasing labor unions from mediation. Unfortunately for our commuters, the direct consequence of this action is the strike we have today.
Now, New York, everyone knows, is a pro-labor state. We believe in working men and women receiving a fair wage and benefits. But the MTA cannot agree to a contract that would raise fares as much as eight percent and risk hiking taxes for Long Islanders. I have worked too long and hard to reduce costs for our residents, and I will not allow that to be undone. As Governor, my priority is to fight for affordability for all New Yorkers, and this strike puts that affordability at risk.
Long Islanders deserve a break, as do all the residents who commute on our lines from Queens and elsewhere. They face tariff prices, price hikes on everything from food to school supplies, and skyrocketing gas prices after Trump’s war in Iran. I will not let this dispute lead to higher prices and less money in the pockets of our residents.
So we’re looking at ways to defray the costs caused by this strike, costs that fly in the face of affordability, and I’ll have more to say about that in the coming days if necessary.
Now, remember this — not long ago when I became Governor, the MTA was barreling off a fiscal cliff. Rider post-pandemic was down, and there were calls to reduce service and slash costs. I took a different approach. I said, “Let’s invest more. Let’s create more reliability. Let’s have a higher level of service.” And those results have borne out. We’ve invested billions of dollars, and I need those investments to hold and not be diminished. And as a result, ridership has surged back, nearly all the way back to the pre-pandemic levels, which is an extraordinary result, and I want to thank all the workers across the lines and at the MTA who’ve been responsible for that success.
Like I said, I put the MTA on stable financial grounds. I worked hard to do that, and I don’t want that undone. I will not let that be undone. But I believe, I know a deal can be reached to end this strike and end it soon. But to reach the deal, as I’ve said before, the MTA needs a partner. The MTA has made multiple generous offers with real wage increases.
I urge both sides to come together as soon as possible and resolve this to avoid a prolonged strike that’ll disrupt the lives of hardworking New Yorkers and affect the pocketbooks of the union members that their leaders are representing. So getting everyone back to the table is the surest way to resolve this strike, also achieving all of our goals, and getting the trains running once again.
Governor Kathy Hochul signed two bills to safeguard access to lifesaving vaccines for New Yorkers as the Trump administration continues to undermine the scientific consensus around the safety and efficacy of immunization. The bills were introduced in March in coordination with New York State Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins and Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie.
“When public health comes under attack by an anti-science administration, New York fights back,” Governor Hochul said. “Sadly, our country has witnessed the deadly consequences of politicizing science and rejecting expert opinion, especially for young people. That’s why this legislation protects access to lifesaving vaccines for New Yorkers of all ages. I thank Leader Stewart-Cousins and Speaker Heastie for partnering with us on this legislation to keep New Yorkers healthy.”
The first bill, A.10710/S.9599, requires that in addition to the vaccines recommended by the federal Advisory Committee on Immunization Practice (ACIP), health insurers also cover vaccines recommended by the Commissioner of Health to the Superintendent of Financial Services, utilizing generally accepted medical standards and taking into consideration recommendations by nationally or internationally recognized scientific organizations.
The second bill, A.10711/S.9598, removes references to ACIP in the Public Health Law (relating to school immunization requirements and recommended immunization schedule for newborns), Education Law (relating to the immunizations that physicians and nurse practitioners are authorized to prescribe or order and that pharmacists are authorized to administer), and Social Services Law (relating to Medicaid coverage). The legislation would also authorize pharmacists to administer the COVID-19 immunization to children ages two to 18 under State law. Currently, pharmacists are only authorized by State law to administer the vaccine to adults.
New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said, “I thank Governor Hochul for her continued leadership and unwavering commitment to protecting public health and ensuring New Yorkers continue to have access to safe, effective, evidence-based immunizations. Vaccines remain one of the greatest public health tools in history, protecting individuals, families and entire communities from serious and preventable diseases. At a time when misinformation is undermining confidence in science, this legislation reinforces New York State’s commitment to following trusted medical guidance and keeping New Yorkers healthy.”
Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins said, “In an era where federal health officials are undermining scientific integrity and sowing skepticism about lifesaving vaccines, New York is making the conscious choice to champion our medical professionals and reaffirm this state’s commitment to the evidence-based practices that have safeguarded communities for generations. This joint legislative package builds off our previously passed proposals and embodies a comprehensive and scientifically grounded approach to public health. It reinforces our healthcare system while modernizing our vaccine guidance to ensure it is clear, accessible and firmly anchored in expert knowledge. Together, we are not just advocating for public health; we are upholding the principles of science and evidence that have been proven time and again are essential for a healthy society.”
Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie said, “As the administration in Washington continues its attacks on lifesaving immunizations and places people at risk, New York will stand firm on the side of proven science. Vaccines are the bedrock of public health and a critical bulwark against harmful and deadly diseases. The Assembly Majority will always prioritize the health and wellbeing of New Yorkers and we will continue to work with our partners in government to safeguard access to these vital resources that keep our communities safe and healthy.”
State Senator Gustavo Rivera said, “I am grateful to Governor Hochul for signing these two bills and ensuring that New York State prioritizes scientific research and knowledge when it comes to life saving vaccines as well as making them more accessible to all New Yorkers. This sends a clear message to the federal administration and the rest of the country that public health must be protected from unfounded conspiracies that are putting communities in danger.”
State Senator Jamaal Bailey said, “We are committed to the scientific consensus that keeps our families safe. By having medical experts guide insurance coverage, we are creating a vital safeguard for public health in New York State. This legislation breaks barriers to care by authorizing pharmacists and medical professionals to do their jobs without unnecessary limitations, making it easier for parents to choose the medical resources they deem necessary for their children. I thank Governor Hochul and my colleagues in government for ensuring that the health of New Yorkers remains in the hands of New Yorkers.”
Assemblymember Amy Paulin said, “As our federal administration continues to undermine the long-trusted science behind lifesaving vaccines, it is critical that we take decisive action to ensure our communities remain safe and healthy. This legislation safeguards vital guidance New Yorkers need to make informed choices regarding their health and ensures that our residents continue to have access to the immunizations they need. I thank Governor Hochul for her steadfast support in protecting public health and ensuring New Yorkers continue to have access to science-based healthcare.”
Assemblymember Erik M. Dilan said, “The Vaccine Access Act ensures that New Yorkers maintain their ability to access vaccines recommended by professional medical groups such as the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American College of Physicians. With the federal CDC Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices pursuing a rollback of recommended immunizations, this legislation is not a vaccine mandate but will ensure coverage that is crucial for New Yorkers to still be able to obtain those vaccines without facing additional out-of-pocket expenses, and I thank Governor Hochul for her forward-looking support of this legislation.”
Governor Kathy Hochul came to Long Island to announce that Village of Valley Stream will receive $10 million in funding as the Long Island winner of the ninth round of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI), and the Village of Patchogue will receive $4.5 million as the Long Island winner of the fourth round of NY Forward. For Round 9 of the DRI and Round 4 of the NY Forward Program, each of the State’s 10 economic development regions is being awarded $10 million from each program, for a total state commitment of $200 million in funding and investments to help communities boost their economies by transforming downtowns into vibrant neighborhoods. To date, total investments in the DRI and NY Forward have reached $1.4 billion.
“Downtowns and Main Streets are powerhouses for localities, and any investments toward them shape the business and recreational scene for residents and visitors — that’s why the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward programs are so impactful,” Governor Hochul said.“These transformational projects in Valley Stream and Patchogue are a commitment to Long Island’s future, where we will secure walkable downtowns, affordable housing, support for the arts and so much more. I’ll always keep fighting for Long Island.”
To receive funding from either the DRI or NY Forward program, localities must be certified under Governor Hochul’s Pro-Housing Communities Program, which recognizes and rewards municipalities actively working to unlock their housing potential and encourages others to follow suit. After becoming certified, localities have exclusive access to up to $750 million in discretionary state funding, including DRI and NY Forward. Since the launch of the Pro-Housing Communities Program, funds awarded to Pro-Housing Communities throughout the state have supported up to 20,000 more homes. To date, more than 410 communities across New York have been certified, including the Village of Valley Stream and the Village of Patchogue.
Many of the projects funded through the DRI and NY Forward support Governor Hochul’s affordability agenda. The DRI has invested in the creation of more than 5,000 units of housing — more than 2,000 of which (40 percent) are affordable or workforce housing. The programs committed $9 million to 12 projects that provide affordable or free childcare and childcare worker training. The DRI and NY Forward have also invested in the creation of public parks, public art — such as murals and sculptures — and art, music and cultural venues that provide free outdoor recreation and entertainment opportunities.
$10 Million Downtown Revitalization Initiative Award for the Village of Valley Stream The Village of Valley Stream’s “International Downtown” stands as a bold vision for the future of Long Island — where diversity, connectivity and opportunity converge in a vibrant, transit-oriented community. As one of the region’s most diverse municipalities, Valley Stream is redefining what a modern downtown can be: walkable, compact and welcoming to residents and visitors of all backgrounds, ages and stages of life. Strategically located near JFK International Airport, Belmont Park and major transit connections, including the LIRR, Valley Stream serves as a true gateway to Long Island’s South Shore. Its bustling Rockaway Avenue corridor and thriving mixed-use center around the train station anchor a downtown rich with local businesses, global cuisine and essential services, which are all supported by ongoing investments in housing, infrastructure and public space. Now, with the DRI, Valley Stream will be able to advance transformative projects that will shape its next chapter. Surrounded by an interconnected network of parks and trails and driven by a deep commitment to inclusivity and community engagement, Valley Stream is emerging as a dynamic hub of culture, commerce and quality of life, which is poised to lead the way in Long Island’s continued growth and revitalization.
$4.5 Million NY Forward Award for the Village of Patchogue Founded in 1812 along the shores of the Great South Bay, the Village of Patchogue has evolved from an historic maritime hub into one of Long Island’s most dynamic and walkable downtown communities. Once known as “Mill Town” for its thriving shipbuilding and industrial past, Patchogue’s modern renaissance has been defined by strategic reinvestment, beginning with the transformation of the Patchogue Theatre for the Performing Arts into a cultural anchor that now draws more than 100,000 visitors each year. Building on this momentum, decades of public and private investment have introduced new housing, arts spaces and small businesses, creating a lively Main Street and a growing reputation as a regional destination for culture, dining and events. Today, Patchogue stands as a model for smart growth, where a compact downtown supports a diverse mix of housing, jobs and recreation within a connected, accessible environment. With this investment from NY Forward, Patchogue will be able to extend its revitalization beyond Main Street, strengthening connections to the waterfront, enhancing public spaces and ensuring its future as a bustling, resilient and welcoming community for generations to come.
The Village of Valley Stream joins Hempstead, Smithtown-Kings Park, Huntington Station, Amityville, Baldwin, Central Islip, Hicksville and Westbury as winners of the DRI for Long Island, while the Village of Patchogue joins Farmingdale, Mineola, North Bellport, Long Beach and Lindenhurst as NY Forward winners for Long Island.
New York Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley said,“Across Long Island, we’ve seen how the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward programs help communities build momentum and spark new possibilities. With this investment, the Villages of Valley Stream and Patchogue can begin shaping a vision that reflects the community’s desired goals for their downtown and its future growth. Thanks to Governor Hochul for her continued support of these great programs, and congratulations to both communities and look forward to working together in this next phase.”
Empire State Development President, CEO, and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Through the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward, we are partnering with communities like Valley Stream and Patchogue to turn local priorities into lasting progress. These investments will support locally driven visions that strengthen small businesses, expand housing opportunities and enhance public spaces — ensuring Long Island remains a dynamic place to live, work and visit.”
New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said, “Through the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward, we are helping communities across Long Island turn bold local visions into real, lasting progress. In Valley Stream and Patchogue, this $14.5 million investment will unlock new opportunities to create housing, support small businesses and strengthen vibrant, transit-connected downtowns that reflect the diversity and energy of these communities. By linking these resources to our Pro-Housing Communities Program, we are ensuring that growth goes hand in hand with expanding housing supply and affordability. Together, these efforts are building stronger, more resilient communities where people can live, work and thrive for generations to come.”
New York State Energy Research and Development Authority President and CEO Doreen M. Harris said, “New York State is transforming downtowns into vibrant, environmentally friendly hubs that strengthen local economies and improve quality of life for residents. By integrating modern features and infrastructure into these updated spaces across Long Island, we are advancing a more sustainable, resilient, and healthy future for communities across the region.”
Empire State Development Board Chair Kevin Law said, “Long Island’s economic future is rooted in strong, connected downtowns, and Valley Stream and Patchogue are communities ready to seize that opportunity. This investment reflects Governor Hochul’s commitment to growing every corner of the state — and it will generate a real, lasting impact on Long Island families, small businesses, and the region.”
Long Island Regional Economic Development Council Co-Chairs Linda Armyn and Dr. Kimberly R. Cline said, “These awards reflect the strength of Long Island’s communities and the thoughtfulness of their vision for the future. Valley Stream and Patchogue each bring a compelling, community-grounded plan for growth — one centered on diversity and transit access, the other on culture and waterfront connection. The Long Island Regional Economic Development Council is proud to support projects that create opportunity, strengthen small businesses and improve quality of life.”
The Long Island Regional Economic Development Council conducted a thorough and competitive review process of proposals submitted from communities throughout the region and considered all criteria before recommending these communities as nominees.
State Senator Dean Murray said, “Patchogue Village has become a model for revitalization not just on Long Island, but across New York State, and this $4.5 million dollar NY Forward grant is a tremendous investment in its future. The ‘Storefront to Shorefront’ project will strengthen the connection between Patchogue’s thriving community and its beautiful waterfront, creating new opportunities for residents, visitors, and local businesses alike. Patchogue’s transformation has been remarkable, and this exciting next step will continue the Village’s growth and success for years to come.”
Assemblymember Michaelle Solages said, “This $10 million investment in Valley Stream is exactly for what DRI was originally established. Valley Stream is the gateway to Long Island: a diverse community filled with families and small businesses who will benefit from this initiative. Through this funding, we will build a more walkable, connected community while supporting local economic growth and ensuring our beloved village receives the updated infrastructure that it deserves. This funding will go a long way to keeping Valley Stream a neighborhood that residents can be proud of for generations to come. I thank Governor Hochul for this timely and well-considered investment.”
Assemblymember Judy Griffin said, “I am truly grateful that the Village of Valley Stream will be awarded $10 million as the well-deserved winner of the Long Island Downtown Revitalization Initiative, and I applaud the dedicated and determined efforts by all involved in achieving this milestone. Congratulations Mayor Fare, residents, and business owners! This will be a game-changer for this over 100 year old village and I am proud to have played a role in bringing it to fruition. I am excited to see the many ways this vibrant community and downtown village hub will be enhanced. Already a well-planned and attractive residential, business, recreational and commuter community, Valley Stream will further become a dynamic destination for shoppers, diners, and patrons – offering new employment and residential opportunities. Thank you, Governor Hochul, for shining a light on the welcoming Village of Valley Stream.”
Village of Patchogue Mayor Paul Pontieri said, “Success is built on partnerships and Governor Hochul has been a dedicated partner to the Village of Patchogue since she first walked our streets years ago. With this ‘Storefront to Shorefront’ grant, we are finally bridging the gap between our vibrant downtown and our beautiful waterfront. This funding allows us to expand recreation, improve walkability, and ensure that as our Village grows, our residents’ quality of life remains on top priority. Thank you, Governor Hochul, for being the dedicated advocate our community deserves.”
Village of Valley Stream Trustee Kevin Waszak said, “On behalf of the Village of Valley Stream, I want to thank Governor Hochul for this transformational investment in our downtown and our future. This $10 million DRI award will help us create a more vibrant, connected and welcoming community for residents, businesses, commuters and future generations.”
Long Island Association Acting President & CEO Stacey Sikes said, “Our downtowns and its small businesses are the lifeblood of Long Island’s economy, and the Long Island Association thanks Governor Hochul for her commitment to ensuring the vibrancy of our local communities and the success of the businesses that drive them. We appreciate the collaboration of officials at all levels of government to support these critical investments in Valley Stream and Patchogue.”
Vision Long Island Executive Director Eric Alexander said, “Special thanks to Governor Hochul for continuing the NYS DRI and NY Forward programs to bring resources to Long Island’s downtowns.The Village of Valley Stream has been working on revitalization of Rockaway Avenue and supported transit oriented development housing for many years and has tremendous opportunities to expand its diverse business base, arts, pedestrian safety and housing. This grant funding can help realize goals from residents and business owners for their business district we have heard in recent years.”
Nassau County Legislator Cynthia Nunez said, “Governor Hochul continues to deliver real investments for Long Island communities, and I’m pleased to see the Village of Valley Stream receive this transformative $10 million Downtown Revitalization Initiative award to help create a safer, more vibrant, and more walkable downtown for residents, commuters, and local businesses.”
Valley Stream and Patchogue will now begin the process of developing a Strategic Investment Plan to revitalize their downtowns. A Local Planning Committee made up of municipal representatives, community leaders and other stakeholders will lead the effort, supported by a team of private sector experts and state planners. The Strategic Investment Plan will guide the investment of DRI and NY Forward grant funds in revitalization projects that are poised for implementation, will advance the community’s vision for their downtown and that can leverage and expand upon the state’s investment.
About the Downtown Revitalization Initiative The Downtown Revitalization Initiative was created in 2016 to accelerate and expand the revitalization of downtowns and neighborhoods in all ten regions of the state to serve as centers of activity and catalysts for investment. Led by the Department of State with assistance from Empire State Development, Homes and Community Renewal and NYSERDA, the DRI represents an unprecedented and innovative “plan-then-act” strategy that couples strategic planning with immediate implementation and results in compact, walkable downtowns that are a key ingredient to helping New York State rebuild its economy from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as to achieving the State’s bold climate goals by promoting the use of public transit and reducing dependence on private vehicles. Through nine rounds, the DRI will have awarded a total of $1 billion to 99 communities across every region of the State. The Governor has proposed another $100 million for the program in her 2026-27 Executive Budget.
About the NY Forward Program First announced as part of the 2022 Budget, Governor Hochul created the NY Forward program to build on the momentum created by the DRI. The program works in concert with the DRI to accelerate and expand the revitalization of smaller and rural downtowns throughout the State so that all communities can benefit from the State’s revitalization efforts, regardless of size, character, needs and challenges.
NY Forward communities are supported by a professional planning consultant and team of State agency experts led by DOS to develop a Strategic Investment Plan that includes a slate of transformative, complementary and readily implementable projects. NY Forward projects are appropriately scaled to the size of each community; projects may include building renovation and redevelopment, new construction or creation of new or improved public spaces and other projects that enhance specific cultural and historical qualities that define and distinguish the small-town charm that defines these municipalities. Through four rounds, the NY Forward program will have awarded a total of $340 million to 77 communities across every region of the State. The Governor has proposed another $100 million for the program in her 2026-27 Executive Budget.
State Moves to Defend Major Offshore Wind Project That Will Power 600,000 New York Homes
Sunrise Wind Will Support Thousands of Jobs, Strengthen New York’s Energy Grid, and Advance State Climate Goals
Governor Kathy Hochul and New York Attorney General Letitia James moved to intervene in a lawsuit that threatens the successful completion of the Sunrise Wind Project, a major offshore wind development that will deliver clean energy to New York, support thousands of jobs, and strengthen the state’s electric grid. The lawsuit, filed by Green Oceans and other plaintiffs in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, seeks to vacate federal approvals for the project and could delay or block construction. Governor Hochul and Attorney General James are seeking to intervene to defend New York’s interests in the project and ensure that Sunrise Wind can move forward.
“Offshore wind projects like Sunrise Wind will not only provide needed clean energy that will help our environment, but also create good-paying union jobs, benefit our local economies, and help secure our energy independence,” Governor Hochul said. “We successfully fought the Trump administration’s multiple attempts to stop construction on this fully–permitted project and expect that we will prevail against this lawsuit. While Washington Republicans are hell bent on taking us backward, here in New York we remain committed to protecting our clean energy future.”
New York State Attorney General Letitia James said, “Contrary to the president’s claims, wind energy is essential for our economy, our environment, and our electric grid. Sunrise Wind will power hundreds of thousands of homes, support thousands of good-paying jobs, and help protect New Yorkers from pollution and climate change. This administration has already tried to shut down Sunrise Wind once, and we will not leave the fate of this critical project in its hands.”
The Sunrise Wind Project is a 924-megawatt offshore wind project that is expected to generate enough electricity to power 600,000 New York homes. The project is expected to begin delivering power to New York’s electric grid this year and become fully operational next year. In March of this year, Green Oceans and other plaintiffs filed a lawsuit seeking to block construction and vacate the federal government’s approval of the project. If successful, the lawsuit could delay completion or even force cancellation of the project, leaving New York with significant costs and none of the project’s benefits. Given this administration’s past statements and actions opposing wind energy, including its repeated attempts to halt wind energy projects, Governor Hochul and Attorney General James are intervening to ensure New York’s interests are fully defended.
Governor Hochul and Attorney General James argue that New York has significant economic, environmental, public health, and sovereign interests in the successful completion of Sunrise Wind. The project is expected to provide more than $875 million in economic benefits to New York by the end of its third year of operations, with additional benefits to follow. The project also supports more than 3,500 jobs in construction, steel manufacturing, shipbuilding, and operations, including many high-paying union jobs.
Sunrise Wind will also help strengthen New York’s electric grid at a time of growing energy demand. New York’s energy needs are expected to increase as the state electrifies transportation and buildings, and consumers are already experiencing rising electric bills. The Sunrise Wind Project will add nearly 1,000 megawatts of energy capacity to the grid, helping reduce New York’s reliance on fossil fuels and improve grid reliability, particularly on Long Island.
This federal administration has consistently opposed offshore wind projects, imposed a stop-work order on Sunrise Wind, and paused federal approvals for wind projects more broadly. While Attorney General James has secured several court orders blocking these actions – including, most recently, a preliminary injunction ensuring Sunrise Wind can continue construction – the Trump administration’s record raises serious concerns that it may not fully defend the project’s federal approvals. Governor Hochul and Attorney General James are moving to intervene to ensure that New York’s interests are protected.
