Policy debates (again) delay dollars discussion in budget

In a repeat of past budget negotiations under Gov. Kathy Hochul, the final taxing and spending discussions between the second floor and the Democratic majorities in the state legislature are on hold until the outstanding policy priorities of the governor are resolved.

“Every conference we’ve had, it’s been led by the speakers saying, ‘We haven’t talked any numbers yet.’ Until we get these four issues done, you know, we’re not going to be able to talk numbers,” said Assemblyman Al Stirpe on Dispatches from Planet Albany.

That emphasis on policy is also while the Syracuse-area Democrat, and most Capitol observers, believe the state budget will be late again.

It’s possible the delayed budget could open the door for the legislature to take the lead on an immigration reform package, with both houses working behind the scenes to craft a proposal redefining the relationship between local and state law enforcement and federal immigration officials. The governor has been pushing her own language in the context of the budget, but has stopped short of the most aggressive proposals from Democratic lawmakers, including New York for All.

“It really depends on how long before the budget gets solved,” said Stirpe. “We could go ahead and pass a bill and then deal with the governor after doing a memo later on to change some things, but … I think we’re going to get there in immigration,

“We’re still wondering why we haven’t passed anything already,” he added.

Another issue that needs to be addressed is the governor’s roll back of the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act, which has garnered some fierce opposition, but may not be a deal breaker for the legislature.

“I think as things work their way through, and if [the governor] comes through with some things that continue to help New York move forward in combating climate change, I think you’ll find that we’ll probably end up getting enough votes to make it happen,” Stirpe predicted.

Check out the full interview for the assemblyman’s thoughts on how other controversial issues will play out, such as SEQRA reforms, scaling back the CLCPA and pension sweeteners.