State Budget Update

The New York State budget has not yet been agreed upon, now past the deadline of April 1. Some of the key issues holding up its passage include the Governor’s housing proposal and a plan to scale back the bail reform law of 2019. Lawmakers will depart for upcoming holidays after Wednesday’s session, meaning a condensed schedule to finalize the $227 billion budget.

Adams Launches MyCity Portal

Mayor Adams announced the launch of the first phase of the MyCity portal, a one-stop shop for city services and benefits. The portal is intended to make it easier for New Yorkers to access benefits for multiple city agencies. The first phase, launched today, enables New Yorkers to check their eligibility and apply for benefits. The second phase of the portal, which will launch later in 2023, will be focused on job seekers and small business owners.

NYS Receives Federal Funding for Broadband Internet Access

New York State will be receiving $100 million in federal funding through the American Rescue Plan to expand broadband Internet access. This is the largest targeted investment in affordable housing connectivity, and the Governor’s office estimates that this funding will provide over 100,000 families with high-speed Internet access, to advance the statewide goal of closing the digital divide.