Central New Yorkers and families across the state could see more money in their pockets under proposals unveiled today by Governor Kathy Hochul in her state of the state address. She says the combination of savings from a middle-class tax cut, free school meals, child tax credits, and inflation refund checks adds up.
“Two little ones, a thousand dollars each [from the] child tax credit. One school age, $500. Meal savings, $1600. While you’re at it, throw in the $500 for your family rebate, plus your tax cut savings. Now we’re approaching five thousand dollars.”
Here are details about the proposed savings:
- Proposed middle class tax cut for 8.3 million NYers making less than $323,000
- A previously released proposal would mail "inflation refund checks" to 8.6 million NYers; $300 for individuals, $500 for families
- Reiterated a proposed tripling the maximum child tax credit to $1,000 for children up to age 4
- Proposed free breakfast and lunch for all school children, which can add up to $1,600 per child
Hochul, a Democrat, says she’s proposing common sense measures that aim to make the state more affordable and safe.
Assembly Minority leader Will Barclay said, tongue in cheek, that he'd like to welcome Governor Hochul to the Republican Party. He says his party has been talking about the same themes for years.
“Things like middle class tax cut something I think most Republicans could get behind," Barclay said. "The childcare tax credit is something that we've been proposing in our conference. That's unfortunately been held by the Democratic majorities, but we like that. So we think that's good.”
Barclay says he’s leery of the inflation refund checks, which he says is an inefficient way to provide what amounts to only short-term relief. Assembly Democrat and new speaker pro-tempore Pam Hunter says the proposed savings is meaningful, but hopes details include deeper reforms that lower the cost of housing, childcare, and other necessities.
“It’s an approach and a tool and a tool kit that doesn't have all of the necessary tools to fix the house," Hunter said. "I think that's where the Yellow Book comes in to see what are other tools that are included, but the answer is yes, it needs to be farther reaching.”
The “Yellow Book” is the assembly’s review and analysis of the governor’s proposed executive budget, which Hochul delivers by month’s end.
You can listen to Gov. Hochul's entire speech by clicking on the blue tab above the photo.
