Photo: Walter Bibikow / DigitalVision / Getty Images
New York State lawmakers have approved another budget extender, allowing the government to continue operations through April 14. The decision, made on Tuesday (April 7), comes after Governor Kathy Hochul and the state Legislature missed the April 1 deadline to finalize the 2026/2027 budget. The extender ensures state employees receive paychecks and keeps the government running while negotiations continue.
The budget process has been delayed due to disagreements over key issues, including a proposed wealth tax, police assistance restrictions, and amendments to the 2019 Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act. North Country lawmakers are also pushing for lower utility rates, with proposed bills to provide ratepayer credits and exemptions.
The budget delay has frustrated many, including Republicans and fiscal watchdog groups. Assembly Minority Leader Ed Ra criticized the lack of progress, stating that local schools and municipalities remain in the dark about their financial plans.
Governor Hochul, known for late budgets, continues to negotiate with Senate and Assembly leaders. The budget was 38 days late last year, and the current delay has prompted lawmakers to pass week-long extenders instead of the usual shorter ones. State Senate Deputy Majority Leader Michael Gianaris remarked that the extended timeline has become routine.
The temporary funding bill provides lawmakers with another week to negotiate before facing potential payroll issues again. Lawmakers are expected to return to Albany on April 13 for further discussions, with hopes of finalizing the budget by the end of the month.