After a lengthy process involving multiple budget extenders and extensive negotiations, the Albany Majority has approved the FY2025-26 Enacted Budget. The budget amounts to $254 billion, marking an increase of $13 billion from the previous fiscal year and $77 billion since FY2019-20. This development has sparked criticism for not adequately addressing the needs of Upstate New York.
The enacted budget includes provisions such as allowing the New York state commissioner of education to grant an additional two-year extension for school districts struggling to meet the 2027 deadline for purchasing zero-emission school buses. However, concerns remain about this mandate’s impact on school budgets and calls have been made for longer extensions or opt-out options.
One lawmaker expressed dissatisfaction with the budget, stating: “I voted ‘no’ on this year’s budget—until the state delivers a budget that addresses the needs of the thousands of families throughout Upstate New York who depend on the Legislature to have their backs, out-of-touch, bloated budgets like this one will continue to drive hardworking New Yorkers out of state for good.”
The sentiment reflects ongoing debates about fiscal priorities and their implications for residents in different regions across New York State.
