State Legislature Passes Gov. Hochul’s $254 Billion Budget Package
After days of debate and a month-long delay past the April 1 deadline, both houses of the state legislature have finally passed Governor Kathy Hochul’s massive $254 billion state budget package on Thursday night.
The final votes on the spending plan were made on Thursday evening, following intense debate over a provision hidden in the budget that could potentially leave state taxpayers responsible for Attorney General Letitia James’ legal fees, as reported by The Post.
State Senator Andrew Lanza (R-Staten Island) criticized the provision, stating, “This certainly is the height of hypocrisy,” during the Senate floor debate.
The controversial provision allows for state employees to be reimbursed for legal bills if they face discriminatory or retaliatory treatment from the federal government due to their employment.
Just a day before the revelation, sources confirmed the FBI has initiated an investigation into allegations of mortgage fraud against Attorney General Letitia James.
Deputy State Senate Majority Leader Michael Gianaris (D-Queens) defended the provision, claiming it is necessary in the current political climate where legal and investigative systems are being used to target political enemies.
Despite differing opinions, lawmakers from both parties expressed more enthusiasm about the budget’s passage than its actual contents.
The 10 individual bills that make up the extensive spending package were mostly passed along party lines.
According to state law, legislators do not receive pay during budget delays, leading to a queue resembling a soup kitchen to collect their back pay checks.
Governor Hochul is anticipated to sign the bills promptly.
