State Budget Update – 3/28/20

March 28, 2020

Just a short time ago the big news of the day was that the Legislature was going to print their “one house budget bills” and proceed into negotiations with the Governor.  Today members of the Legislature are reportedly meeting internally (and via technology) to discuss the Final Budget. 

The state’s fiscal situation is grim. Current revenue projections call for up to a $15 billion or more decrease and the Governor continues to say the Federal Medicaid monies (FMAP) of $6 billion cannot be spent in New York given the Maintenance of Effort requirement that comes along with it.   

From press reports and conversations with members the Assembly is meeting tonight via Zoom and will consider implementing prior rules that allowed members to vote without being in their seats in the Assembly Chamber.  On the Senate side of the Capitol, the Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart Cousins issued the following statement:

“The Senate Majority will be in Albany tomorrow for conference and will begin the process of passing budget bills this week as bills are ready. During these unprecedented times, our state government requires continuity, and New Yorkers deserve leadership and action. Throughout the week, our process will establish appropriate protocols involving social distancing, and tomorrow we will pass a resolution authorizing limited remote voting as necessary. Obviously, this is a fluid situation, and we will let everyone know if there are any changes.”

We will continue to keep you updated.