Government
New York Governor wants to raise the minimum age for gun purchases to 21
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“How does an 18-year-old purchase an AR-15 in the state of New York, the state of Texas? That person’s not old enough to buy a legal drink.”
App NEWS
Hochul wants to raise the age to buy some guns in NY to 21 after Buffalo, Texas Shootings
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Hochul said she would like to see the state raise the age of purchase for AR-15 rifles, “at minimum,” but that other guns could be included as well.
App NEWS
What top New York lawmakers want after Buffalo mass shooting
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“This coward manifested white supremacy in a violent and tragic way.”
App NEWS
After Buffalo mass murders, governor calls for action from social media companies
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“I want them to have … a system that would immediately alert individuals.”
News
Two debates set in Democratic primary for New York governor
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“I’m eager to participate in these debates to highlight our strong track record of getting things done for New Yorkers.”
App NEWS
NY’s highest state court tosses new district lines for Congress, State Senate over constitutionality
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New York’s new district lines for Congress and State Senate, drawn by the state Legislature, were thrown out on Wednesday by the state’s highest court, which said in a decision that they were drawn “to discourage competition.”
Government
Hochul seeks change in state law; hopes to remove indicted running mate from ballot
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“I would like the Legislature to….(correct) what is really a strange part of our law that does not allow the removal of someone who is under indictment.”
Government
Lawmakers seek to double governor’s proposed wage hike for human services providers
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The State Assembly, in its one-house budget resolution, is proposing an 11% cost of living adjustment for those workers in the upcoming fiscal year.
Government
Why Governor Hochul is not expecting a late state budget
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New York is also flush with cash for this year’s state budget, thanks to federal aid during the pandemic and stronger-than-expected tax receipts.
News
Cuomo teases return to public life, blames ‘Cancel Culture’
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The New York Attorney General’s Office frames it as a misleading attempt by Cuomo to save face after the barrage of controversies.
News
Republicans pick party nominees for New York’s statewide offices
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At least one of the designated nominees could still face a primary challenge for the official nomination in June.
App NEWS
Zeldin picks police veteran as running mate in race for New York governor
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“Lawmakers have shackled the hands of law enforcement with irresponsible restrictions, while simultaneously allowing violent criminals to operate with impunity.”
News
Republican field for New York governor widens, businessman Harry Wilson now running
|
The Conservative Party of New York State didn’t take kindly to Wilson’s announcement Tuesday, saying they’d continue to back Zeldin in the race for governor.
Government
New York preps for cyber attacks amid Russia-Ukraine crisis
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“Shame on us if we’re not anticipating and watching what’s happening across the globe, and the possible impact in any city.”
App NEWS
Convention officially chooses Hochul as Democratic Party’s designated nominee for governor
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“There are those who actually believe Democrats are vulnerable this November. I flatly reject that notion right here.”
Government
Rep. Tom Suozzi picks Diana Reyna as running mate in campaign for New York governor
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“When I heard he was running for governor, I wanted in. I wanted to be part of that campaign — to shake things up and get something done in Albany.”
Economy
Governor undecided on lower overtime threshold for New York’s farm workers
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“We (should) take care of our workers, give them what they need, but give the farmers, perhaps tax relief, to ameliorate the impacts.”
Crime and Justice
Cuomo to file complaint against New York’s Attorney General
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Cuomo’s personal attorney said the former governor will personally file the complaint against James with one of the state’s Attorney Grievance Committees.
Government
HIV/AIDS Providers ask New York’s governor to reverse Cuomo-era change
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“This could force the shuttering of food pantries and the closure of AIDS clinics statewide.”
Government
How New York’s proposed district lines could be challenged in court
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“As we unravel the gerrymanders of the past, it doesn’t make it a gerrymander of today. These are districts drawn fairly.”
Education
Lawmakers Push for $5 Billion Toward Universal Child Care Access in New York
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“This is not a strong start, and does not come close to universal child care.”
Crime and Justice
New York’s mask mandate is still in effect after another legal decision
|
The request will be reconsidered Friday by a panel of judges from the court, and could ultimately be reversed.
Crime and Justice
Assembly Speaker: Bail Reform Used as ‘Scapegoat’ for Rise in Crime, Data Has No Context
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“Part of my frustration is that when anything bad that happens, it’s got to be bail reform’s fault.”
Uncategorized
NY’s panel tasked with drawing new election districts calls it quits, handing the keys to lawmakers
|
New district lines for Congress, the State Senate, and the Assembly for this year’s elections will be drawn by the state Legislature after members of the state’s Independent Redistricting Commission called it quits on Monday.
App NEWS
Hochul holds wide lead in race for governor, de Blasio not running
|
Gov. Kathy Hochul holds a sizable lead in this year’s race for governor, according to a new poll from Siena College, and that margin could grow after former New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio said he wouldn’t run for the office on Tuesday.
App NEWS
New York’s highest state court gets a new judge: Shirley Troutman
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Troutman is the second Black woman to serve on the high court.
Government
Ahead of eviction moratorium deadline, New York governor asks White House for more rent relief funds
|
So far, neither the Biden administration nor leaders in Congress have said that they plan to send more rent relief funding to New York.
Government
Competing district maps rejected by New York’s legislature
|
If the commission fails to agree on a new set of maps to send to the Legislature for consideration, lawmakers will then take over the process.
Government
New York announces new nursing home visitation rules
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“Ideally, every visitor would be vaccinated and boosted, but we don’t have the authority to create that restriction.”
App NEWS
Hochul proposes term limits, outside income ban for statewide elected officials
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Gov. Kathy Hochul will propose term limits for statewide elected officials in New York, and seek to ban outside income for those individuals while in office, she said Monday.
Economy
New York lawmakers seek to expand access to child care, boost industry with new bill
|
“The better environment we can create for raising our children, that’s going to pay dividends in terms of innovation, in terms of entrepreneurship.”
News
How Suozzi says New York could lower property taxes
|
“We need the state aid from the state to increase. We have to use it to try and drive down property taxes for people.”
App NEWS
Trump sues NY AG’s office to halt probe into his past business practices
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Former President Donald Trump is suing New York Attorney General Letitia James in an attempt to halt her office’s investigation into his past business practices by framing the probe as politically motivated.
Government
Hochul: ‘rough ride’ ahead amid COVID-19 surge in New York
|
For New Yorkers experiencing so-called “COVID fatigue,” a sense of hopelessness as the pandemic wears on, there’s more bad news: there’s no end in sight.
News
After New York AG James chooses reelection over bid for governor, democrats clear the way
|
As of Monday, no other Democrats had filed to run against her, other than those who’ve now dropped out of the race.
Government
New York ethics agency votes to claw back Cuomo’s book profits
|
“Our investigation evidences that the Book was the product of significant work performed by Executive Chamber staff.”
App NEWS
New York’s Tish James drops bid for governor, will seek reelection to attorney general
|
“There are a number of important investigations and cases that are underway, and I intend to finish the job.”
Government
New York launches relief fund for homeowners struggling with mortgage, bills
|
“Help is on the way for literally thousands of families hurt by the pandemic.”
Government
COVID-19 pandemic enters race for New York governor
|
“Sadly, New York has been making the same mistakes over and over again on COVID.”
Education
Child care providers get faster access to subsidy payments under new Hochul-approved law
|
“This is an important step in modernizing the system and eliminating an administrative hassle for child care programs.”
App NEWS
Assembly releases findings of its impeachment investigation into Cuomo
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An investigative report into several claims of misconduct made against former Gov. Andrew Cuomo was released Monday by the State Assembly, and concluded that the former governor engaged in sexual harassment, used state resources to write a book, and more.
Crime and Justice
BGM mayor says more funding is key to reducing gun crime
|
“It is much harder to protect our communities due to the handcuffs that are being put on judges, district attorneys, and police officers.”
News
Jumaane Williams, the New York City Public Advocate, formally enters race for governor
|
Williams is expected to frame Hochul as a hold-over of the Cuomo administration,
Crime and Justice
New York governor opens door to reforming bail reforms
|
“I’ll work with the Legislature to address this … to make sure their needs that they hear from their constituents just as much as I do, and we’ll get it done.”
binghamton
Hochul raises $10 million in fewer than three months
|
That’s a huge chunk of change, considering former Gov. Andrew Cuomo had $18 million in the bank when he resigned.
App NEWS
New York asks Biden Administration for $1B in additional rent relief funds
|
New York is one of just a handful of states that have exhausted the rent relief funding allocated to them by the federal government.
Government
Lawmakers ask governor to fully fund veterans support program
|
“Each year despite the program’s stunning success rate, our veterans are forced to travel to Albany to advocate for funding for the program.”
Crime and Justice
Cuomo harassment probe transcripts released, including former governor’s testimony
|
Now a private citizen, Andrew Cuomo continues to deny that he ever touched anyone inappropriately.
Government
New York’s mental health workforce “on life support,” asks state to release funds
|
“I think we failed our mental health community in the last few years, in many ways, I really do. We have so much more work to do.”
Voters Approve Change to NY Constitution on ‘Clean’ Environment, Reject Proposals on Elections
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Voters in New York appeared to reject three amendments to the state constitution on Tuesday that would have modified the state’s redistricting process and made it easier to vote, while approving two others on the environment and courts in New York City.
2022 election
New York’s attorney general announces run for governor, setting up Democratic primary
|
There’s a joke in Albany that the title “AG” stands for “Aspiring Governor”, and for good reason. Governors Andrew Cuomo and Elliot Spitzer were both attorney generals.
Government
Governor releases plans to boost transparency and ethics in New York government
|
Under the Cuomo administration, freedom of information requests often took months, or even years, to be fulfilled.
Crime and Justice
Cuomo to be charged with misdemeanor sex crime over alleged groping of former aide
|
“Governor Cuomo has never assaulted anyone, and Sheriff Apple’s motives here are patently improper. Sheriff Apple didn’t even tell the District Attorney what he was doing.”
App NEWS
Judge Says Health Care Workers Likely to Win Lawsuit Over Religious Exemptions to the COVID Vaccine
|
The decision only allows health care workers to request religious exemptions to the mandate, for the time being.
Government
New York’s Attorney General Breaks Silence on Cuomo Report, Delivers Campaign-Style Speech
|
When asked directly at the end of the event if she was running for governor next year, James jokingly interrupted the questioner and took her exit.
Education
SUNY Begins De-Registering Unvaccinated Students After Mandate Deadline Passes
|
About 97% of students enrolled at SUNY schools across New York have complied with the mandate, according to a SUNY spokesperson.
Government
Governor Hochul Names New State Health Commissioner
|
Dr. Bassett was previously the commissioner of health for NYC, but left to lead Harvard’s François-Xavier Bagnoud Center for Health and Human Rights.
News
A New York City Public Advocate Takes First Step In Run Against Hochul
|
“I’ve spent my entire career, most of my life, pushing and advocating and fighting on behalf of the people and against injustice and inertia.”
Government
Facing Health Care Workforce Shortage, New York Governor Preps Emergency Plan
|
The state has issued guidance that would prevent unvaccinated health care workers who are fired to collect unemployment.
Energy
New York Governor Sets New Solar Energy Goal, Announces Major Infrastructure Projects
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“This is a major, major initiative to deliver clean, healthier air and more electricity to New York City.”
App NEWS
Governor Pledges Ethics Overhaul, Calls New York’s System ‘Flawed’
|
“You’re not going to restore the trust of the people of New York if you keep playing the same games over and over.”
App NEWS
First Proposals To Redraw New York’s Congressional District Lines Released
|
Instead of unveiling just one proposed set of maps, the commission released two versions.
App NEWS
New York May Allow Some Religious Exemptions To The COVID Vaccine, Judge Says
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“We believe this step will result in a flurry of attempts to circumvent the well-reasoned vaccination requirement.”
Gov. George Pataki Shares His Story Of 9/11 & The Days After
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“On that day itself, every half hour or hour, someone would come in and say, ‘did you know so and so was killed? Did you know someone else was missing, or was in the tower?’ And you just had this momentary sense of incredible loss.”
Government
New York Governor Warns Of Health Care Staffing Shortage, Hospital Bed Capacity
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“The biggest challenge for our hospitals is not…the beds. Just like last year, it’s staffing. Staffing is now what we need.”
Government
New York Lawmakers Extend Pause on Evictions, With Exceptions
|
“Now, the landlord gets to have a hearing. I think that goes a long way, and the landlord has a say in court now.”
Government
Governor Plans Booster Shot Distribution, Considers More Mandates
|
In First COVID-19 Briefing, Hochul Talks Vaccines
Government
How New York Lawmakers Would Have to Fix the Eviction Moratorium
|
“I am in talks with the Senate Majority Leader and Assembly Speaker to call a special session to address the impending eviction crisis.”
App NEWS
New York’s Ethics Agency Refers Alleged Cuomo Leak to Attorney General for Investigation
|
Former Gov. Andrew Cuomo may be out of office, but his legal troubles aren’t over just yet.
Government
Will Governor Hochul’s Rise Launch a New Era in Albany?
|
Now, for the first time in state history, two women and one man will be in the room where major pieces of legislation are negotiated.
Crime and Justice
In Farewell Address, Cuomo Doubles Down on Defense While Highlighting Accomplishments
|
“The attorney general’s report was designed to be a political firecracker on an explosive topic.”
Crime and Justice
Assembly Will Release Final Cuomo Impeachment Report, Speaker Says
|
The Assembly dropped the probe on Friday after advice from attorneys that it wouldn’t be legal to impeach Cuomo after he’s left office
App NEWS
New York Will Require All Health Care Workers to be Vaccinated
|
The new requirement applies to all health care workers in New York, regardless of employer.
Andrew Cuomo
Assembly Drops Impeachment Of Cuomo, Citing Potential Legal Issues
|
“We have been advised by Chair Lavine — with the assistance of counsel – of the belief that the constitution does not authorize the legislature to impeach and remove an elected official who is no longer in office.”
App NEWS
As Governor, Hochul Promises To ‘Fight Like Hell’ for New Yorkers
|
“At the end of my term, whenever it is, no one will ever describe my administration as a toxic work environment.”
Government
Former Lt Governor: Hochul’s Ready To Be New York’s Governor
|
“She’s a quick study, very smart, very energetic, and has her experience. I think she will step in and not miss a beat.”
#metoo
Andrew Cuomo Resigns Amid Sexual Harassment Claims; Kathy Hochul To Become Acting Governor
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“I think that given the circumstances the best way I can help now is if I step side and let government get back to government.”
Crime and Justice
Assembly Could Conclude Impeachment Investigations in ‘Weeks’
|
“You want to make sure things are right, but also done in an expeditious manner. And, you know, I believe that this is going to be dealt with in weeks.”
Crime and Justice
Cuomo Responds To Attorney General’s Harassment Report, Calls It The Result Of Bias
|
“The Governor’s conduct in this regard is unremarkable: Democratic and Republican politicians, male and female alike, use handshakes, hugs, and kisses to connect with others.”
Crime and Justice
President Biden, New York Senators Call On Cuomo To Resign
|
“No elected official is above the law. The people of New York deserve better leadership in the governor’s office. We continue to believe that the Governor should resign.”
AG Letita James
Cuomo Sexually Harassed Women, Broke State and Federal Laws, AG James Report Concludes
|
It’s unclear if the attorney general’s report will be a catalyst for the Assembly’s investigation, prompting impeachment, or not.
App NEWS
NY Lawmakers Examine Challenges Faced by Nursing Homes
|
“The key difference between a job at McDonald’s and a job at a nursing home should be a career, that you’re beginning a career. We believe we need to build that infrastructure.”
App NEWS
New York Spends $15 Million To Target Areas With Low Vaccination Rates
|
New York is using those funds to target 117 zip codes from around the state with lower-than-average vaccination rates, though nearly 80% of those neighborhoods are in New York City or on Long Island.
Crime and Justice
New York Secures $1.1 Billion Settlement From Opioid Distributors
|
“We’re holding them accountable and delivering more than $1 billion more into New York communities ravaged by opioids for treatment, recovery, and prevention efforts.”
App NEWS
Why Rep. Zeldin, Now Running for Governor, Says He Voted Against The 2020 Election Results
|
Zeldin was one of four Republican members of Congress from New York who voted against certifying the results in Pennsylvania and Arizona.
App NEWS
Report: Cuomo To Be Questioned Saturday On Sexual Harassment Claims
|
“I can’t tell you how eager I am to tell my side of the story and the time will come.”
Government
New York Declares Gun Violence a Public Health Crisis, Outlines Plan to Address Crime
|
“Gun Violence is not only taking a human toll. It’s taking an economic toll. So we have no choice but to address it. It’s the right thing to do.”
App NEWS
New York Republicans Seek Resurgence Through Cross-Party Appeal, ‘New Generation of Leaders’
|
“It’s running on a common sense agenda that can bring people together of all party affiliations. We know we can’t run with some right-wing agenda that has any sort of extreme tendencies.”
Andrew Cuomo
NYS Assembly To Issue Subpoenas In Cuomo Impeachment Probe
|
The firm has received more than 100,000 pages of documents to sort through as part of the inquiry, which is far-reaching and not limited to any one allegation against Cuomo.
Education
Groups Partner With State to Expand High-Speed Internet Access to Affordable Housing
|
“This initiative will help create affordable connected homes that equip residents with the tools necessary to thrive in the modern world.”
News
What Happened: 2021 Primary Night Roundup
|
New York saw a few major upsets Tuesday, with some new faces expected to lead at least two of the state’s major cities starting next year.
App NEWS
Astorino: Parents, School Administrators Should ‘Show Civil Disobedience’ on Masks
|
“We need school districts and superintendents to marry civil disobedience with common sense. And that is no masks for the rest of the year.”
Government
Cuomo: Most COVID-19 Restrictions Will End Once Vaccination Rate Hits 70%
|
“We hit 70%, we will be back to life as normal, or as normalized as you can be post-COVID.”
Government
New York’s On The Cusp Of A Health Care Overhaul, But Sticking Points Remain
|
A top sticking point for the New York Health Act, which would create a universal, single-payer health care system in New York, is opposition from public sector labor leaders.
App NEWS
Zeldin Says No New Laws Needed To Curb Gun Crime in New York
|
“What I hear from prosecutors is just how often laws on the books here in New York get broken but are not prosecuted.”
App NEWS
To Curb Shootings, New York Democrats Seek Tougher Gun Laws
|
“I again ask this industry: what are you going to do about your products that are killing our people?”
Crime and Justice
Cuomo Announces Picks To Fill Two Seats on New York’s Highest State Court
|
Those nominations will now go before the Judiciary Committee in the State Senate, which will then decide if they’ll get a full vote before the entire chamber. It’s likely that they will.
App NEWS
New York Dems Look to End Qualified Immunity
|
“All we’re doing is asking the officials of the state of New York, in their capacity, is to serve and protect, and not harm and kill.”
App NEWS
Attorney General Rejects Cuomo’s Political Claims, Defends Probe Into His Book Deal
|
“This is Albany politics at its worst — both the Comptroller and the Attorney General have spoken to people about running for Governor and it is unethical to wield criminal referral authority to further political self-interest.”
App NEWS
Cuomo Defends Early Pandemic Preferential COVID-19 Testing for Family
|
“I was running COVID response for this state, so I didn’t want to get COVID, and precautions were taken.”
App NEWS
Targeting Cuomo, Republicans Seek To Ban Book Sales By Statewide Officials
|
“Self-serving nakedly political press stunts are nothing new for these Republican politicians.”
News
Andrew Giuliani, Son Of Rudy Giuliani, Enters Race For New York Governor
|
“I’m not going to run away from my association with President Trump.”
Government
Cuomo’s Set To Be Paid $5.12 Million For His Pandemic Memoir, Tax Returns Show
|
Of the initial payment for his new book, nearly half was taken out in expenses and taxes, and the rest was donated to the United Way of New York and placed in a trust for his three daughters.
Crime and Justice
Cuomo: Making Someone Uncomfortable ‘Is Not Harassment’
|
Governor Cuomo said flat-out at several public appearances that he did nothing “wrong,” and rebuffing claims that his actions violated the state’s laws on sexual harassment.
Energy
New York Lawmakers Seek to Expand Electric Vehicle Access By Allowing Direct Sales
|
“We want to make it easier for customers to have access to them wherever you live in New York state, not just in the downstate markets.”
Government
Over Half of New York Adults Are Fully Vaccinated
|
“Even if a younger person tends to be less affected by COVID, they can transmit COVID just as easily as anyone. So, we have to change the mindset.”
News
Rob Astorino Enters Race For New York Governor, Seeks Rematch With Cuomo
|
“The problem has been not just Andrew Cuomo … but this whole system up here has to be fixed. It’s broken and unfortunately the people of New York have responded by leaving.”
Crime and Justice
New York Correction Officers Sue To Overturn New Solitary Confinement Law
|
“This ‘reform’ shows a deliberate and callous indifference to the lives and safety of Correction Officers, Correction Sergeants and peaceful incarcerated individuals in the general population of State prisons.”
Government
High-Speed Internet Could Face Tighter Regulation In New York
|
The legislation would allow the state to treat high-speed internet as a utility, which would empower regulators to drill down on the industry, like they do with other utilities.
Government
New York Lawmakers Move to Extend Eviction Moratorium Through August
|
The legislation would apply to both residential and commercial tenants who file a hardship declaration form with their landlord.
App NEWS
Over Half Of New York’s Republican County Chairs Have Endorsed Rep. Lee Zeldin for Governor
|
“I think it would be a safe assumption that Lee Zeldin is the front runner because he’s the only person that’s declared his candidacy to that level.”
Crime and Justice
District Attorneys Push Back On Proposed Prosecutorial Misconduct Panel
|
Another version was struck down in court early last year, when a state judge declared it unconstitutional as written.
Government
New York Could Sue To Prevent Loss Of Congressional Seat, Cuomo Says
|
“We’re looking at legal options because when you’re talking about 89 [people], I mean, that could be a minor mistake.”
Government
New York Lawmakers Expected To Set New Staffing Requirements At Nursing Homes
|
“The pandemic has laid bare the risks to vulnerable nursing home residents that are inherent in a low staffing business model.”
Government
New York Loses Seat In Congress, U.S. Census Bureau Says
|
If 89 more people had been counted last year as part of the federal census in New York, the state wouldn’t be losing a seat in Congress for at least the next decade.
News
Should Albany Hold New Hearings On Ethics Reform? These Groups Say Yes
|
“New Yorkers deserve an independent ethics watchdog, one with the resources and legal support to take on even a governor without fear or favor.”
App NEWS
New Discussions On Ethics Reform Have Started in Albany, Senate Leader Says
|
“We are probably introducing a new draft in both houses, and I’m cautiously optimistic that we might be able to get first passage in both houses.”
News
There’s Appetite In Albany For An Ethics Overhaul And It Could Start This Year
|
The situation has reignited the conversation in Albany over enforcement of the state’s ethics laws, and whether the entities that already exist have been effective.
Government
Potential Republican Nominees For New York Governor Pitch Party Leaders in Albany
|
“I believe that New York is ready to be returned to glory, but it’s not going to happen with the continued reign of Andrew Cuomo.”
Education
Starting In June, New York Will Require $15 High-Speed Internet for Low-Income Families
|
“For America, broadband holds great power. It will either be the great equalizer for society, or it will be the great divider.”
Government
Cuomo Asked to Ban Non-Essential State Travel to Arkansas Over Transgender Laws
|
“It is frustrating and heartbreaking that we have to call for and impose yet another travel ban in response to yet another state enacting dangerous and harmful anti-trans legislation.”
Health
COVID-19 Hospitalizations Drop in New York, While Vaccinations Climb
|
In recent days, the state’s COVID-19 indicators have shifted downward, with a decline in the statewide positivity rate compared to numbers seen in March.
Government
New York Extends Curfew For Bars And Restaurants To Midnight
|
“At same time, we caution New Yorkers. Don’t get cocky. The disease is still very much with us.”
Crime and Justice
Lawmakers Call For Openly LGBTQ+ Judge On New York’s Highest Court
|
“It is imperative that the Commission of Judicial Nomination focus on vetting and recommending qualified LGBTQ+ candidates, who have an intimate understanding of the unique perspectives and needs of our community.”
Government
Excluded Workers Fund Doesn’t Require Prior Approval From Comptroller’s Office, DiNapoli Says
|
The new fund is designed to offer relief to undocumented immigrants who, during the pandemic, didn’t have access to unemployment and other benefits, like federal stimulus checks.
Education
New York To Set $15 Per Month Price Cap on High-Speed Internet for Low-Income Earners
|
The deal will also require the state to study access and reliability of high-speed internet service statewide, including in historically underserved rural areas.
Government
Cuomo, Lawmakers Reach $212 Billion State Budget Deal
|
“We not only balanced our budget, we are also making historic investments to reimagine, rebuild and renew New York in the aftermath of the worst health and economic crisis in a century.”
App NEWS
Under Budget Deal, Communities Without Police Reform Plan Risk State Monitor, Funding Cuts
|
The Ithaca plan was approved, while trustees in Malone ended up sending a revised version of its strategy to the state.
App NEWS
Marijuana Legalization Opponents Make Last-Ditch Effort to Stall NY Legislation
|
“I’m not talking about stopping a guy from sitting in his backyard and smoking a joint. Honestly, I really don’t care. But I know people are going to get in traffic crashes and they’re going to die.”
Government
New York To Allow Universal Access To COVID-19 Vaccine Starting April 6
|
“As we continue to expand eligibility, New York will double down on making the vaccine accessible for every community to ensure equity.”
Government
Controversial Legal Protections for Nursing Homes, Hospitals Now In Cuomo’s Hands
|
The law, approved nearly a year ago, essentially made it harder to sue those providers.
Crime and Justice
Assembly Impeachment Probe Into Cuomo Will Take ‘Months, Rather Than Weeks,’ Judiciary Chair Says
|
The New York Attorney General’s Office is conducting its own, simultaneous investigation into the sexual harassment claim leveled against Cuomo in recent weeks.
Government
Cuomo Admin Rejects Proposed Tax Hikes On High-Income Earners, Restores Planned Cuts
|
Democrats have said those tax hikes, coupled with other revenue raisers targeted at the wealthy, could generate more than $8 billion for the state each year.
App NEWS
New York Lowers Vaccine Age Eligibility to 50, Launches New Distribution Program
|
Cuomo’s office is encouraging faith-based institutions to partner with medical providers to launch local vaccination clinics.
Crime and Justice
After State Senate Approval, Limits On Solitary Confinement Now In Governor’s Hands
|
“The passage of HALT in the Senate brings us one step closer to bringing justice to all those who have lost loved ones to the wrongful use of solitary.”
Crime and Justice
New York Lawmakers Set to Pass Limits On The Use Of Solitary Confinement
|
Under the legislation, incarcerated individuals would not be allowed to spend more than 15 days in solitary confinement.
New York Lawmakers ‘Close’ On Deal To Legalize Marijuana
|
“I spent this past weekend on the phone with the Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes working through it. We’re very close on marijuana.”
Economy
Medical Marijuana Companies Say They Could Jump-Start Recreational Market
|
Rather than wait for new cannabis cultivators to build from the ground up, medical cannabis companies say they could use their existing infrastructure to give the new market a boost.
App NEWS
New York Democrats Unveil Plan for Tax Hikes on the Wealthy
|
“If you’re not careful the way you do it, you may actually lose money for the state because businesses and residents will make changes.”
App NEWS
New Law Guarantees New Yorkers Paid Time Off For COVID-19 Vaccine
|
New York has, so far, administered 6.2 million COVID-19 vaccine doses, with about 10% of the state now fully vaccinated.
App NEWS
Could Cuomo Step Down Temporarily Without Being Impeached? Maybe Not
|
“I believe it is in the best interest of our State if Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul serves as Acting Governor until the Attorney General’s investigations or any other potential inquiries reach a conclusion.”
App NEWS
Despite Allegations, Cuomo Says Fourth Term Still On The Table
|
A majority of Democrats in the state Legislature either haven’t taken a public position on whether Cuomo should resign, or have said they want to wait for the results of the attorney general’s investigation.
Government
New York Expands Vaccine Eligibility to Include Ages 60+
|
“The supply is increasing, and if the supply is increasing we can increase our distribution levels.”
Crime and Justice
Who Are The Attorneys Leading The Sexual Harassment Probe Against Cuomo?
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“There is no question that they both have the knowledge and background necessary to lead this investigation and provide New Yorkers with the answers they deserve.”
Government
Republicans To Introduce Impeachment Resolution Aimed at Cuomo
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“We won’t be able to force a vote, but we’re going to keep pounding on this issue. If they really believe in resignation, why not start the impeachment process?”
Economy
With Federal Aid, Tax Hikes On The Rich Still On The Table, Cuomo Says
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That money would be used to fill the state’s budget deficit, which Cuomo’s office has projected to be about $15 billion over two years.
Government
New York Begins Administering Johnson & Johnson Vaccine At Mass Vaccination Sites
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Over three million people have received the first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine in New York, according to the state, which is now administering more than 100,000 shots per day.
App NEWS
Attorney General Receives Referral to Begin Cuomo Harassment Probe
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One day after Cuomo offered his response to the charges, many elected officials, both Democrats and Republicans, said they don’t buy it
Government
Republicans Question New York’s COVID-19 Policy At Group Homes
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The policy at group homes has been to require those facilities to admit residents discharged from the hospital regardless of their COVID-19 status.
App NEWS
Governor Claims He’s ‘Playful,’ But ‘Never Inappropriately Touched Anybody’
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“I never inappropriately touched anybody and I never propositioned anybody and I never intended to make anyone feel uncomfortable, but these are allegations that New Yorkers deserve answers to.”
Crime and Justice
White House, Members Of Congress Call For Probe Into Sexual Harassment Claims Against Cuomo
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The White House Press Secretary said President Biden has been briefed on the claims and supports an immediate investigation.
Government
State Senate Approves Package of Bills Related to Nursing Homes
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“The tragic situation in our nursing homes remains a heartbreaking reminder of the toll this pandemic has taken and has made it clear that real reforms are needed.”
binghamton
Assembly Democrats Agree to Take Action Against Cuomo Admin Over Nursing Homes
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“I do think there’s a consensus of the members that they want to take some action. We’re still trying to come to a place where all the members are comfortable, and I don’t know if we’re there yet.”
Government
Four New Mass Vaccination Sites to Open Upstate
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“This is a very big and aggressive effort to address vaccine hesitancy in the Black community.”
Economy
Cuomo Changes Marijuana Legalization Proposal, Outlining Plan for Revenue and Delivery
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Cuomo’s proposal would set aside $100 million of the state tax revenue generated by the cannabis industry to be reinvested for purposes of social equity, targeting communities disproportionately impacted by the state’s drug laws.
Government
Cuomo Concedes on Nursing Homes: ‘We Should Have Provided More Information Faster’
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In a rare concession, Cuomo said the state was wrong to stonewall lawmakers and members of the media on that data, saying it created a void for disinformation and “conspiracy theories.”
App NEWS
After New Revelations, Support For Ending Cuomo’s Emergency Powers Grows
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“Crucial information should never be withheld from entities that are empowered to pursue oversight. This was always about getting the truth and allowing information to guide our response.”
App NEWS
New York Mayor Urges Albany To Tax Billionaires And Avoid Budget Cuts
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Mayor Bill de Blasio spent the better part of three hours on Thursday morning asking state lawmakers to empower localities to fight the pandemic and distribute vaccines, and raise taxes on ultra-wealthy New Yorkers.
App NEWS
New York Republicans Seek New Process to Remove Statewide Officials From Office
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The idea to create a process to recall statewide elected officials isn’t new. Republicans have sponsored the measure before, but it hasn’t picked up steam.
Government
Another Boost In Vaccine Doses Headed For New York
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Cuomo, who was on a call with the Biden administration Tuesday morning, said the federal government is planning to boost the state’s vaccine supply by 5% over the next three weeks.
App NEWS
New York Senate Approves Bills Targeting Housing Discrimination
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“Buying a new home should be a special achievement in a person’s life without the risk of becoming a victim of abhorrent discrimination.”
App NEWS
New York State Probe Finds Racial Gap in Mortgage Lending
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“The data is clear – families of color, particularly African Americans, do not have equal access to mortgage lending in Buffalo compared to white households.”
Government
New York Republicans Draft Subpoena On Nursing Homes, Urge Dems To Move Forward
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“You have to know where you went wrong in order to correct things.”
Economy
As COVID-19 Raged On, State Sales Tax Collections Last Year Took A Dive
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The steepest decline in sales tax collections happened during the peak of the pandemic, when sales tax collections dropped by about 27% statewide.
Government
Local Governments Will Decide if Restaurant Workers, Others Can Get the COVID-19 Vaccine
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Governor Cuomo received word from the Biden administration that New York would receive an additional 5% of vaccine doses over the next three weeks.
Government
After Pocket Veto, Cuomo Will Propose Legislation to Study Broadband Access in New York
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The legislation would have required the Public Service Commission to study the availability, affordability, and reliability of high-speed internet
Government
Governor Allows Weddings Next Month, New York City Reopens Dining On Valentine’s Day
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If you’re lucky enough to get engaged over a COVID-era dinner date, you’ll be able to get married as early as March 15.
Government
Data Shows Racial Gap in COVID-19 Vaccine in New York
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The state will be launching a new advertising campaign targeted at communities of color with the intention of boosting vaccine recipients among those populations.
App NEWS
New York May Have Undercounted Nursing Home Deaths By 50%, State Attorney General Says
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“Clearly, some facilities were not prepared to handle outbreaks through early and effective training or staffing.”
Government
Cuomo: Zone Restrictions Lifted, New York City Restaurants Plan Coming
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Residential gatherings will still be capped at 10 people, and certain restrictions on restaurants, like a capacity limit and 10 p.m. curfew, will also remain in effect statewide.
App NEWS
New York Will Receive Boost In Vaccine Supply, Governor Says
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“Now, the states will know what they’re getting every week for the next three weeks, and we’re getting 16-17% more.”
App NEWS
Senate Republicans Propose COVID-19 Relief Package for New York Restaurants
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“The state needs to step up and help us ensure that this industry is able to continue on and prosper. It is the lifeblood of New York state.”
Government
Cuomo to Decide Fate of Bill to Study Broadband in NY
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If Cuomo doesn’t act on the bill by the end of the month, it will quietly disappear in the form of a pocket veto, which means lawmakers would have to pass it again for his consideration.
App NEWS
New York’s COVID-19 Hospitalization Rate Drops
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“We just need to keep the arrows pointed down, but, never get cocky with COVID.”
Government
Cuomo Proposes Legal Marijuana for Third Year, With New Changes
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Cuomo, during his address on the state budget Tuesday, said the potential tax revenue from the cannabis industry would likely help garner support for legalization this year.
