Friday Morning Brief Feb 13, 2026
Member Spotlight
Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon
Assemblymember Marianne Buttenschon joins us to discuss her district, priorities, and background as an educator. Prior to being elected to the Assembly, she was an educator serving as an academic dean and a faculty member. Currently, she is the Chair of the Assembly Committee on Small Business, and serves on various committees, including Education, Higher Education, and the Legislative Women's Caucus.
What district do you represent?
I represent the 119th Assembly District, which includes the cities of Utica and Rome, as well as the towns of Floyd, Deerfield, Marcy, and Whitestown.
If someone were visiting your district, what landmarks would you recommend?
We’re very well known for our food. We have incredibly diverse eateries, reflecting the diversity of our community. In the Utica School District alone, more than 52 languages are spoken. Whether you’re looking for Dominican, Korean, Italian, Bosnian, Spanish, you’ll find it here. I could go on and on.
As for landmarks, we have Fort Stanwix, which marks the turning point of the Revolutionary War, and the battlefield associated with it. We also have both a public-run ski lift and a private ski resort in Rome. If you’re interested in memorial history, we have close to 52 memorials throughout the district.
The Erie Canal runs through the district as well, with a beautiful bike trail. If you travel the canal by boat, you can go all the way from Florida to Michigan—and you have to pass through my district to do it. We also have nearly 2,000 small businesses, many of which have been around for 50, 75, or even 100 years. There’s so much history and culture here. And of course, chicken riggies started right here in my district.
What’s your favorite music or artist?
Rod Stewart.
What about New York sports teams?
The Bills
What was your profession before being elected to the Assembly?
I was an academic dean at Mohawk Valley Community College. Before that, I served as a full-time and adjunct faculty member. I ran the School of Emergency Preparedness and previously oversaw five different academic centers.
How did your background as an educator shape your work in Albany?
To fulfill the legislative role effectively, you need both education and experience, and that’s what I brought to the Assembly. My academic background gave me a strong foundation in collaboration and teamwork. It reinforced the importance of working together and understanding issues deeply before making decisions.
As Chair of the Committee on Small Business, what priorities are you focused on this year?
Not all small businesses are booming, and that’s something I take very seriously. My priority is ensuring they have the resources they need. Last year, I was proud to help relieve small businesses of certain unemployment insurance payments.
This year, many are struggling with rising minimum wages, insurance costs, and utility bills. Small businesses are the foundation of economic growth in our communities, and my goal is to support them in every way possible.
Do you have other priorities you’re focusing on?
Public safety is always my top priority. Economic development cannot thrive unless people feel safe. I’ve introduced several bills addressing youth in crisis and mental health, which remains an ongoing concern. I also want to ensure our veterans, seniors, and young families have the support they need.
Is there a legislative achievement you’re particularly proud of?
Yes. I passed legislation addressing catalytic converter thefts, which were rising rapidly. I worked closely with district attorneys and defense attorneys to identify the root of the issue. We determined that stopping theft meant targeting the buyers, not just the thieves. If someone shows up with six catalytic converters and only one registered vehicle, it’s clear they don’t belong to them. Addressing the demand side made a real difference.
Another important bill was Bianca’s Law, which addressed the horrific murder of a young woman whose death was shared on social media. That legislation helped limit the exploitation of violent content online, particularly when it affects children and vulnerable individuals.
What advice would you give young people who want to get involved in politics?
Attend as many local government meetings as possible, from school boards on up. Listen carefully, ask questions, and consider shadowing an elected official to see if public service is truly something you want to pursue. Staying engaged, volunteering, and remaining involved will give young people the insight and experience they need to move forward.
Are you a public official or staffer that would like to be featured in our spotlight? If so, reach out to your favorite D&A team member or contact us at team@dickinsonavella.com to set up an interview!
Mike Groll/Office of Governor Kathy Hochul
Delgado Drops Primary Challenge Against Hochul
On Tuesday, Lt. Gov Antonio Delgado announced his decision to drop his primary challenge against Hochul, explaining that there is “no viable path forward.” The announcement comes after Hochul and her running mate, Adrienne Adams, were formally nominated by the Democratic Party at the Democratic Convention on Friday, and after Delgado failed to secure enough support to be on the ballot in June. Additionally, the state WFP declined to endorse Delgado (and Hochul) over the weekend.
Many have criticized Delgado over the last few weeks for continuing his primary challenge, with Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins remarking that it was a “good idea” to suspend his campaign. "It’s better that we are united, because we know that we are trying to defeat a Trump administration and folks who would deprive us of healthcare and environmental protections and food,” explained Stewart-Cousins. In response to Delgado’s announcement, Hochul’s campaign explained that she has “spent all year uniting her big-tent party around a vision for affordability and safety for every New York family,” and that “ready to defeat Donald Trump and his enablers up and down the ballot.”
With Delgado out of the primary, Hochul will now have to focus on Nassau County's Bruce Blakeman in the general, who was formally nominated by the state Republican Party at its Convention on Wednesday. “Millions of New Yorkers rejected Kathy Hochul four years ago, and after four more years of soaring taxes, rising crime, and reckless spending, families simply cannot afford her failed leadership any longer,” said Blakeman. Blakeman was also endorsed by President Donald Trump, who touted Blakeman’s work in Nassau County. “When it comes to President Donald J. Trump, I will always have his back,” said Blakeman.
For his running mate, Blakeman chose Madison County Sheriff Tom Hood after Fulton County Sheriff Richard Giardino was offered the position but declined. Other potential picks that were considered included Assemblymembers Mary Beth Walsh and Will Barclay, who recently announced his retirement by the end of the year. Hood, as a sheriff in a county that has formal 287(g) agreement with the federal government, have defended the agreement.
Susan Watts/Office of Governor Kathy Hochul
EXECUTIVE UPDATES
On Wednesday, Hochul touted her Executive Budget proposal to address fraudulent auto insurance claims across the state on Long Island. Part of her affordability agenda, the set of proposals would strengthen anti-fraud enforcement, expand insurers’ ability to pursue fraudulent claims, cap certain non-economic damages, tighten the definition of “serious injury,” require clearer explanations of rate changes, and ensure that any savings are given back to consumers. With the crackdown on fraud, car insurance costs are expected to decline, as they currently average over $4,000 annually and are nearly $1,500 above the national average. “These common-sense proposals will crack down on the bad actors that are driving up the cost of car insurance and putting that financial burden on innocent, hardworking New Yorkers,” explained Hochul.
On Tuesday, Hochul touted another of her Executive Budget proposals to reform the state SEQRA process to speed up housing and infrastructure development. Joined by advocates, labor, and local leaders, Hochul explains that the SEQRA reform would help critical projects, especially in housing, that have consistently been found not to pose an environmental threat, overcome lengthy delays. The proposal builds upon Hochul’s $25 billion Housing Plan to create or preserve 100,000 affordable homes statewide, with more than 77,000 affordable homes already being created or preserved. “It is time that we cut the red tape that too often slows down projects and let communities build, so we can offer all New Yorkers the more affordable and livable state that they deserve,” explained Hochul.
Before the start of the FIFA World Cup, Hochul announced the disbursement of $17.2 million to the State Police, MTA, Port Authority, and NYPD to combat illegal use of drones. Disbursed through the federal Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems, the four agencies would be able to utilize the funds for equipment to detect, identify, track, monitor, and mitigate drones. The funding builds on Hochul’s 2026 State of the State plan to develop a comprehensive framework for drones as they become more widespread and available. “This funding will go a long way to keep New Yorkers safe while allowing historic events like the 2026 World Cup and our nation’s 250th birthday to be celebrated safely and securely,” said Hochul.
On Tuesday, Hochul announced the state's official entry into the World Health Organization’s Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network after the federal government's withdrawal in January. Under the entry agreement, the DOH would have earlier access to global outbreak intelligence as well as additional resources for the state workforce and laboratory capabilities. The recent entry into the WHO is the latest action by Hochul to counteract the federal government's recent healthcare actions, including joining the Governors' Public Health Alliance and endorsing an immunization schedule from the American Academy of Pediatrics.
On Monday, Hochul convened a roundtable with local law enforcement and lawmakers touting the Local Cops, Local Crimes Act. Under her proposal, the bill would prohibit local municipalities from joining the 287(g) agreement with the federal government to collaborate on immigration enforcement. The bill would also prohibit federal agents from using local detention centers to house civil immigration detainees. Currently, various DAs, County Sheriffs, and County Executives have endorsed Hochul’s proposal. “Today I heard from a bipartisan group of law enforcement and elected officials about the importance of keeping our police resources focused where they are needed most – in our communities,” said Hochul at the roundtable.
LEGISLATIVE UPDATES
Next week, the Legislature is on break
The Legislature is scheduled to be in session from Monday, February 23, to Thursday, February 26.
Senate Deputy Leader Announces Decision to Not Run for Reelection
On Monday, Senate Deputy Leader Mike Gianaris announced his decision to step down from the Senate at the end of the year instead of running for reelection. Citing family reasons, Gianaris explained that he wants to be more involved with his two children and take care of his mother, who is 92. “The sandwich generation is a real thing. Between caring for my young ones and my mom, it's just been a lot to spend this much time in Albany and be away from home. So, for me, it was time to head back," explained Gianaris. Gianaris first served in the Legislature in 2001 in the Assembly before serving in the Senate in 2011. “We have accomplished a great deal. And for me, I think that that chapter is over,” said Gianaris.
Aber Kawas to Run for Gianaris’ Seat
With Gianaris not seeking reelection, DSA-endorsed Aber Kawas is expected to run for Gianaris' Senate seat, rather than running for Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas’s seat, who is running for Senator Jessica Ramos’s seat. Kawas was in a primary against Brian Romero, an organizer who has previously worked for González-Rojas. This comes after DSA-endorsed Congressmember Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez endorsed Romero (who is not endorsed by the DSA) instead of Kawas for González-Rojas’s seat. Alongside many advocates, Romero said he would be happy with Kawas running for Gianaris’ seat, saying, “I’m excited at the prospect of another democratic socialist in the Senate, especially a Palestinian rights activist like Aber.”
Ed Ra Elected as Assembly Republican Leader
After the announcement of Will Barclay not seeking reelection, Assemblymember Ed Ra was unanimously elected as the next Assembly Republican Leader. Barclay explained that although he is not resigning from the Assembly, he wanted to step down as leader to ensure an easy transition for Assembly Republicans. Barclay supported Ra’s election, explaining that “He knows what he’s doing. We’re unified, so I’m thrilled with that. And I feel totally confident that he’ll be a great leader.” Before he was elected Leader, Ra served as the Ranker on the Assembly Committee on Ways and Means, which is now presided by Assemblymember Phil Palmesano. At 44, Ra is the youngest Assembly Republican Leader in decades.
Aung Hset/D&A
Mamdani Reiterates Push for Higher Taxes
On Wednesday, NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani testified in front of his former colleagues during the annual Tin Cup Day. In the testimony, Mamdani explained that the previous estimate of a $12 billion budget deficit for NYC is actually lowered to $7 billion, but repeatedly asked that lawmakers agree to allow the city to raise taxes by 2% on residents who make more than $1 million, as well as taxes on corporations. Mamdani explained that allowing higher taxes would be “orientating the city’s relationship to the state,” as he claims that NYC contributes 54.5% of the state's revenue but only receives 40.5% in return. After getting pushback from lawmakers, including several Democrats, on the consequences of increased taxes, Mamdani explained that he is “confident” it would lead to more people leaving the state.
Additionally, Mamdani also urged the Legislature to approve fare-free buses, especially during the upcoming FIFA World Cup later this summer. However, Mamdani expressed support for Hochul’s proposal for universal free childcare. Hochul has so far reiterated that she will not raise any personal taxes and implement fare-free buses.
Mayors Urge for More AIM Funding in the Final Budget
In addition to Mamdani, mayors from Upstate, Central New York, and Western New York also testified at the hearing, asking for more state funding through AIM. “We want to make sure that we bring home aid that will allow us to sustain a lot of the great programs that we’ve had in terms of momentum, that if we don’t get more dollars, we will lose some of the momentum that we’ve had,” explained Rochester Mayor Malik Evans. “The upstate cities are all facing very similar problems…this is the kind of money we need,” added Buffalo Mayor Sean Ryan, whose city is facing a $60 million deficit. While AIM funding has been frozen at 2012 levels, a small amount of funding was added, which the mayors call inadequate.
DOH Reiterates State's Actions on Healthcare Amidst Federal Cuts
During the Budget Hearing on Health/Medicaid, state DOH Commissioner John McDonald testified before lawmakers that he is confident the state can access a federal trust fund for health coverage for certain undocumented immigrants. “We have every reason to believe we’ll have access to the trust fund,” explained McDonald. However, McDonald did recognize that the federal government is “a little more than unpredictable.” McDonald’s testimony comes as Hochul is proposing to eliminate the state Essential Plan and revert to the previous basic health plan, which required federal approval and funding from a federal trust fund.
DOH Medicaid Director Amir Bassiri also noted and warned about the impacts of the federal government’s actions on healthcare, including work requirements, which Bassiri explained would impact 2.3 million individuals. Additionally, Bassiri explained that the DOH is receiving a “significant influx” of general fund resources to manage the potential loss of coverage. Other issues discussed by lawmakers include healthcare insurance costs and the state's transition into CDPAP, which was criticized, specifically regarding Hochul’s estimate of savings up to $1.2 billion.
Lawmakers to Work with Mamdani on Property Tax Reform
At Wednesday’s Tin Cup Day hearing, the Mamdani Administration reiterated its commitment to reform the city’s property tax system by sending a bill to the Legislature. “It is something that we will pursue, and it’s something that we will require the partnership of Albany on,” explained Mamdani. The property tax reform has been supported by a bipartisan group of lawmakers, with representatives of outer-borough neighborhoods advocating for reforms since the Bill de Blasio Administration. Lawmakers have expressed optimism about working with Mamdani to work on the reform.
Lawmakers Urge Hochul to Remove Qualified Immunity from Proposal to Sue ICE Agents
Along with advocacy groups and city lawmakers, Assembly Speaker Pro Tempore Pam Hunter, Assemblymembers Emily Gallagher and Jo Anne Simon, and Senator Robert Jackson sent a letter to Hochul urging her to remove qualified immunity language from her Executive Budget proposal that would allow individuals to sue immigration enforcement agents. The proposal, which was modelled after Assemblymember Gabriella Romero and Senator Zellnor Myrie’s bill, is currently being negotiated with lawmakers. “The governor is working with us and our version of the bill we want,” said Romero. Romero and Myrie’s bill, which has similar qualified immunity language, will be amended to remove the language and ensure it covers state and local officials. “We knew our previous version was fine, but this is just being super safe,” explained Romero.
Lawmakers Urge Legislative Package to Address Chronic Absenteeism
After the release of State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli’s report on absenteeism in the state, Senators James Skoufis and Pat Fahy, and Assemblymembers Gabriella Romero and John McDonald are urging the passage of a legislative package to address absenteeism. One bill would create a statewide student attendance and chronic absenteeism dashboard, while another would create attendance review teams and a coordinated state response practice. The third bill would create a pilot engagement and attendance program in certain school districts. Lawmakers explained that the report’s finding that one in three students is missing at least 10% of school days in the 2022-2023 school year requires the Legislature to address the issue. “Together, this package of legislation creates a coordinated, data-driven approach to addressing absenteeism, pairing real-time insight with meaningful intervention,” explained Romero.
Lawmakers and Hochul to Work on Tier 6 Reform
Yesterday, Newsday reported that Hochul and lawmakers are looking to roll back pensions that cut benefits for public workers hired after 2011. First implemented 14 years ago, the Tier 6 pension plan was criticized by many union leaders as resulting in fewer benefits, longer retirement requirements, and higher contribution requirements. While not included in her Executive Budget, Hochul said the conversations around Tier 6 are ongoing and that “We have to do it in a smart way.”
OTHER UPDATES
Trump Fires New US Attorney in the Northern District of New York Hours After Appointment
Hours after Donald Kinsella was appointed as US attorney in the Northern District of New York by a group of state-based federal judges. Deputy US Attorney General Todd Blanche publicly announced the firing through a tweet saying, “Judges don’t pick US Attorneys, @POTUS does. See Article II of our Constitution. You are fired, Donald Kinsella.” The appointment of the judges and the firing of Kinsella by Blanche come after a judge disqualified John Scarcone, who was appointed by the Trump Administration to the position, in a ruling now being appealed by the federal Justice Department.
Congress Heads to Partial Shutdown Over DHS Funding
As of Thursday afternoon, a partial federal shutdown looms, as the White House and Congress have repeatedly failed to agree on funding for DHS. Democratic lawmakers, led by Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer and House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, have been urging reforms to the Trump Administration’s immigration enforcement operations. Recently, the White House sent a proposal to Democratic lawmakers, but Jefferies said that his “preliminary assessment of it is that it falls short.” If Congress fails to pass a bill to fund DHS by the end of today, only DHS would not get funding, but nearly all DHS workers would remain on the job without pay.
Other Interesting Friday Reads
Mamdani Nominates Former Federal Prosecutor to Lead NYC Anti-Corruption Watchdog | THE CITY — NYC News
An ugly split in the AI industry is shaping the race to replace Nadler - POLITICO
Self-driving cars wildly unpopular in New York, poll finds - Gothamist
Hochul proposes limited anti-ICE bill as Central New Yorkers rally for New York For All - Central Current
Mandatory court fees harm low-income families, advocates say — Queens Daily Eagle
Zayas says judge shortage is biggest challenge for NYC courts - Brooklyn Daily Eagle
New York Could Lose Seats in Congress Because It… | New York Focus
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