Friday Morning Brief January 9, 2026
Member Spotlight
Assemblymember
Chantel Jackson
Assemblywoman Chantel Jackson joins us to discuss her district, how her background as a social worker has helped shape her politics, and some of the priorities for the upcoming legislative session. Before being elected to the Assembly, she was a social worker helping low-income, first-generation students succeed in their careers and futures. Currently, she serves as the Chairs of the Legislative Women's Caucus, the Black Task Force, and the Subcommittee on Micro Business. She also serves on various Assembly committees, including on Education, Housing, and Mental Health.
What district do you represent?
I currently serve as the New York State Assembly Member for District 79, representing the neighborhoods of Concourse Village, Melrose, Morrisania, Claremont, Belmont, and East Tremont.
What are some landmarks that are in your district?
Bronx Music Hall
William Hodson Community Center
What's your favorite music - artists/bands/genres?
My playlist consists of hip hop, R&B, gospel, Broadway musicals, soca, reggae and right now Christmas music! With this wide variety of musical genres I can pick favorite artists in each category. The greatest of all time musician and artist is Michael Jackson
What about NY sports team?
I’m not a big sports girl but I root for all NY based teams. Yankees over the Mets, Giants over the Jets. KNICKS 2026 Over the Nets! I love the greats; Michael Jordan, Serena Williams, Floyd Mayweather, Deion Sanders.
What was your profession before being elected to the Assembly?
I spent nine years helping low-income, first-generation students navigate college admissions and financial aid, making sure they had the support and access they needed to pursue higher education. I later served as a social worker in NYC public high schools for four years, supporting students’ mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
How did your profession as a social worker influence your policies/politics?
My work as a social worker shaped my politics by grounding everything I do in the real, everyday challenges people face. Supporting students’ mental, emotional, and physical well-being showed me where the system fails them and where policy needs to be stronger. It taught me to prioritize mental health access, educational equity, housing stability, and family support because I saw firsthand how these issues impact young people and their futures. My policies are rooted in addressing those gaps and advocating for resources that truly meet people where they are.
As the Chair of both the Legislative Women's Caucus and Black Task Force, what are some of the issues you would be focusing on in 2026?
As Chair of the Black Legislative Task Force, I am committed to working alongside my colleagues to ensure that funding for underserved communities not only remains in the state budget but continues to grow. In 2026, this work aligns closely with the Legislative Women’s Caucus’ focus on advancing policies that strengthen women’s health, well-being, and safety across New York State. Key priorities include expanding access to affordable childcare and paid family leave, maternal health, and strengthening protections against domestic violence and workplace harassment. Together, these efforts also prioritize increasing women’s representation and leadership across sectors, ensuring that policy decisions reflect the lived experiences of women and families throughout the state.
What other issues are you interested in addressing in 2026?
In 2026, I will focus on improving health outcomes, strengthening support for children and families, and helping my district become financially free.
What advice would you give to young folks who want to get more involved in politics?
My advice to young people interested in entering politics is to begin by cultivating a genuine connection with the communities you hope to serve. You don’t have to be an elected official to make a difference. You can join your community board or just organize with likeminded people to provide services to people in need. Stop thinking and start doing because faith without work is dead. Lastly, do everything with LOVE.
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Aung Hset/D&A
Lawmakers to Focus on Affordability and Trump in 2026 Legislative Session
The 2026 legislative session began on Wednesday, with legislative leaders promising to address affordability while criticizing President Trump and Republican-controlled Congress. “The stakes have never been higher. What we do here in New York in these coming months will resonate across the country,” remarked Speaker Carl Heastie in his opening speech. “These are not times of complacency. These are times that demand clarity, responsibility, and focus. We're beginning a new year in a moment when the pressures facing New Yorkers feel heavier and more immediate in their daily lives,” Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins said in her own opening remarks.
Republican leaders also touted their focus on affordability but warned that the state must address rising spending. "I think that we have to have sustainable and targeted investments,” said Assemblymember Ed Ra. Lawmakers are expected to address the state’s finances, as the DOB projects a cumulative $26.8 billion gap over four years and an additional $3.4 billion in costs for safety net programs due to last year’s federal cuts. Additionally, some are expecting further federal cuts later this year. "I don't think that we’re going to ever make up for the cuts that the feds are going to impose, but ... we’re going to have to make priorities, and we’re just going to have to do it in a way that keeps as many people from harm as possible," said Assemblymember Amy Paulin.
While there is increased support for raising taxes on high earners and corporations amid an election year and the recent mayoral election of former Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani, Hochul reiterated her opposition to raising taxes on high earners but may be open to raising the corporate tax rate. Senate Finance Chair Liz Krueger explained that lawmakers should evaluate on “who’s winning and who's losing in each of these stories.”
In addition to affordability and financial pressure from the federal government, lawmakers are expected to address:
Childcare
Climate Mitigation
Healthcare Coverage
Education Funding
Immigration Protection
Artificial Intelligence
Public Safety and Criminal Justice
Redistricting
Mike Groll/Office of Governor Kathy Hochul
EXECUTIVE UPDATES
As of this morning, Hochul announced three State of the State proposals ahead of her Tuesday’s 2026 State of the State address. On Monday, Hochul unveilednew proposals to better protect children’s online privacy by expanding age verification requirements for all platforms, placing privacy settings at their highest levels by default, disabling AI chatbots on social media platforms, implementing parental controls on children’s financial transactions, and expanding the state Teen Mental Health First Aid training. Hochul explained that the proposal aims to build on her work to address youth mental health, including classroom phone bans, requiring social media warning labels, restricting algorithmic feeds, and expanding safeguards for AI companions. “These proposals will create a nation-leading standard that will ensure our kids’ safety in online and real-world environments where they spend time,” said Hochul.
On Wednesday, Hochul unveiled her second State of the State proposal, which focuses on imposing stricter restrictions on 3D-printed firearms. Under the proposal, penalties for selling or manufacturing illegal firearms would increase; reporting of 3D-printed firearms in a State Police database would be required; the types of firearms that could be manufactured would be restricted; and minimum safety standards for 3D printer manufacturers would be established. Hochul explained that the proposal builds upon her commitment to address gun-related crimes and increase public safety. “These proposals will keep illegal ghost guns off of New York streets and enhance measures to track and block the production of dangerous and illegal firearms in our state,” explained Hochul.
Yesterday, joined by NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani, Hochul unveiled her thirdState of the State proposal, which focuses on affordable childcare. Under the proposal, the state’s childcare system would be expanded by $1.7 billion to launch a free 2-Care program for 2-year-olds in NYC and establish a two-year deadline for statewide universal pre-K. Additionally, the state would support other counties in launching new free childcare pilot programs and expanding childcare subsidies. With the proposal, Hochul expects the total childcare investment to reach $4.5 billion for FY2027. The proposal builds on Hochul’s commitment to expand access to childcare, including the construction of new centers and the prior expansion of childcare subsidies. “As New York’s first mom Governor, fighting for New York’s families has always been at the core of my agenda,” said Hochul.
Earlier this week, Hochul joined NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani and NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch to tout the continuing drop in crimes in NYC throughout 2025. According to NYPD data, shooting incidents declined by 24% compared to 2024, and there were only 35 reported shooting incidents in December, which was the fewest shootings ever recorded in any single month in NYC history. The 2025 data broke the previous record set in 2018 by 10%. Other reported crimes also declined, including robberies, which declined by 10% compared to 2024. Hochul explained that the drop in crime is related to various state commitments, including support for tackling organized retail theft and the presence of NYPD officers on subway cars. “Our aggressive approach is paying off: crime has fallen to record lows, making New York a safer place to live, work, and visit,” explained Hochul.
Late last week, Hochul touted the state’s investment of $3.8 billion for local water infrastructure projects during FY2025, with $1.1 billion being grants for local governments. The investments have been used to support upgrades to the treatment plant, water main repairs, removal of emerging contaminants, lead service line replacement, flood-resilience projects, and habitat restoration. The investment supports the state’s commitment to modernizing its water infrastructure and represents a total of $6 billion invested since 2017. “New York continues to set a national standard for water infrastructure investment that keeps water rates affordable for our communities,” said Hochul.
Last week, Hochul announced the disbursement of $63 million in matching grants to support 21 projects that will expand access to safe, modern swimming facilities. Disbursed through the second-round funding from the NY SWIMS initiative, the funding will support construction, renovation, and upgrades to pools and aquatic spaces, including accessibility improvements, bathhouses, mechanical systems, lighting, shade structures, and natural swimming areas. With the awards prioritizing equity, 8 out of the 21 projects would be for nonprofits. The funding builds upon Hochul’s Unplug and Play initiative, which invests in recreation infrastructure and encourages families to spend more time active and outdoors.
Early last week, Hochul announced the disbursement of $2 billion in housing bonds and subsidies to 24 housing developments. With the funding, it is expected that the 24 housing developments will create or preserve up to 6,600 affordable homes. Additionally, the projects will complement the state’s climate agenda by reducing carbon emissions, as the homes will be built with a focus on sustainability and carbon reduction. The funding supports Hochul’s $25 billion Housing Plan, which is expected to create or preserve up to 100,000 affordable homes statewide. “These investments reflect my commitment to creating quality, modern homes that enrich communities and are making New York more affordable for a wide array of households, including families and seniors,” said Hochul.
Joining the Governors of Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island, Hochul sent a letter to the Trump Administration to urge the lifting of stop-work orders for two wind energy projects in the state. Hochul also demanded that the Trump Administration provide the alleged national security concerns used to implement the stop-work orders and reiterated that the wind energy projects were previously approved after federal reviews and processes by several federal agencies. “This is a moment for leadership, not obstruction. True national and economic security cannot be achieved by hollowing out our industrial base or leaving our power grid vulnerable to collapse. It requires the courage to build,” the letter states.
LEGISLATIVE UPDATES
Next week, the Legislature is scheduled to be in session on Monday to Tuesday
The State of the State is scheduled to be on Tuesday, January 13th
Susan Watts/Office of Governor Kathy Hochul
Hochul's Last 2025 Bill Actions
Before the end of the year, Hochul signed 70 bills and vetoed 49. In total, Hochul signed 713 bills while vetoing 141 in 2025.
Some of the bills Hochul signed were:
Some of the bills Hochul vetoed were:
New Year, New Laws
With the start of a new year, a set of new laws will take effect. From expanding worker protections to certain businesses requiring the acceptance of cash payments, some of the new laws in effect are:
Minimum Wage
As part of a planned series of rollouts, the minimum wage will increase to $17 per hour for Downstate and $16 per hour for the rest of the state. This year will be the last year for scheduled minimum wage increases, with future increases to be indexed to inflation.
Expanding Worker Protections
New pay disclosure standards will take effect later this year and focus on ensuring that workers understand how their earnings are calculated, when they will be paid, and which deductions will apply. The disclosure standards will mainly apply to gig-economy workers and independent contractors.
New Disclosure Requirements for LLCs
Starting yesterday, the state’s LLC Transparency Act took effect, requiring LLCs to disclose information about their beneficial owners to the state. Some of the information required to be disclosed includes reporting the individuals who own the LLCs and maintaining ownership records with the state.
Prohibition of Employment Promissory Notes
Starting this year, businesses will be prohibited from requiring workers or job applicants to sign agreements that obligate repayment if a worker leaves before a stated time period. It is expected that the state DOL will issue rules on the law later this year.
Accepting Cash Payments
By late March of this year, food stores and retail establishments will be required to accept cash payments for in-person transactions. Under the law, New York will join several other states requiring certain businesses to accept cash payments to ensure that communities with barriers to cashless payment methods have a way to buy essential goods.
Insurance Coverage for Epi-Pens
Starting this year, health insurers will be required to cover medically necessary EpiPens in individual and group markets. Additionally, the out-of-pocket costs for coverage will be capped at $100 a year.
Assembly Republicans Unveil 2026 Legislative Agenda
On the first day of the 2026 legislative session, the Assembly Republican Conference unveiled their 2026 legislative agenda. Republican lawmakers explained that the “Fight for New York” agenda would focus on providing financial relief, foster economic growth, and improve quality of life. The five key pillars in the agenda are:
Addressing affordability through lowering taxes and limiting state spending
Addressing energy costs through changing the CLCPA and fixing the reliability of the state’s energy grid
Providing affordable healthcare through new options
Increasing public safety and changing the state’s correctional system
Foster economic growth through expanded job training and new apprenticeship programs
Combatting antisemitism and restricting state funding from groups that spread hate speech
Assembly Republican Leader Will Barclay explained that their agenda would effectively address the affordability crisis and encourage Democratic lawmakers to work together. “Our 2026 legislative agenda is built on common-sense legislation that reflects the needs and concerns of families across the state,” said Barclay.
Lawmakers Press for the Passage of NY4All Act
To counter increasing ICE operations and arrests in the state, as well as a recent public death of a US citizen by ICE agents in Minneapolis, several lawmakers have expressed support to pass the New York for All Act. Lawmakers and advocates explain that passage of the bill would help limit the reach of President Trump’s immigration crackdown and prohibit local law enforcement agencies from entering into 287(g) agreements.
Currently, 12 law enforcement agencies have such agreements, allowing them to collaborate with ICE, either informally or formally. “What New York For All tries to do is set very clear guidelines around when coordination can happen, which is only with a signed judicial warrant, and when it should not happen, which is all other circumstances,” explained Senate sponsor Andrew Gounardes. In her opening remarks, Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins expressed support for the bill, explaining, “We will stand firm in defense of voting rights and equal rights… which includes protecting our immigrant brothers and sisters by advancing the goals of New York for All.”
Lawmakers on CLCPA and Rising Energy Costs
Yesterday, Assemblymember Dana Levenberg published an op-ed defending the CLCPA and urged other lawmakers to “not consider weakening” it. "Legislators are entrusted to safeguard the health and well-being of our communities. Legislating a retreat from the CLCPA would do the opposite,” Levenberg wrote. The op-ed comes after Hochul explained that the state needs an “all-of-the-above approach.” “The long-term answer to affordability is not scarcity; it’s building more in-state power,” Hochul said in support of the recently adopted state energy plan, which includes nuclear power and limited use of natural gas.
Additionally, a state Supreme Court judge set a February deadline for the state to ensure compliance with the CLCPA as it is or change the goals set by the CLCPA. While some Democrats are keen on keeping the current CLCPA intact, others have expressed concerns about its impact on rising energy costs and have urged a pause. “We’ve done it before, we made a pause, and then we followed through,” Assemblymember Bill Conrad explained, referring to the state’s implementation of congestion pricing.
President Trump Freezes Federal Funding for Childcare
Amidst Hochul and lawmakers’ proposals and support for expanding the state’s childcare system and funding, President Trump froze federal childcare funds for several states, including New York. According to Hochul, if the freeze is not lifted, the state could lose up to $3 billion. State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli also warned that the federal government provides up to 75% of the state’s childcare subsidies. Hochul explained that the state is planning to sue the Trump Administration, “We're looking at our litigation strategy. These are kids in red counties and blue counties who are going to be left without childcare.” The freeze in federal childcare funding comes after concerns about fraud, following 2022 reports of fraud in Minnesota that were publicized. On how to fund the state’s recent proposal to expand childcare, Senator Andrew Gounardes explained, “We are going to have to figure out revenue sources for the push for universal childcare with or without the federal government support there.”
Lawmakers to Consider More Prison Reform Proposals
After Hochul signed the prison reform omnibus bill, it was reported that lawmakers would consider several other proposals left out of the bill. The enacted omnibus bill and several prison reform proposals gained traction after the murder of Robert Brooks by correctional facility staffers at Marcy Correctional. While lawmakers touted the omnibus bill after negotiations among legislative leaders, advocates criticized it for failing to pass a broader package of prison reforms. On the several proposals to build upon the enacted omnibus bill, the Senate Chair of Corrections said, “The new law is real progress, but it does not include everything we sought, and it is not a standalone solution to the prison crisis.”
Alexis Weik Announces Retirement at the End of 2026
Last week, Long Island-based GOP Senator Alexis Weik announced that she will not run for reelection. Currently, she is serving her third term in the Senate and previously served as Islip Town’s receiver of taxes. It is expected that another Republican will succeed her as the district has about 65,000 active Democratic voters and about 100,000 active Republican voters. "This decision comes after careful consideration of my health and my family, who have stood beside me through every long day and every challenge," said Weik.
Donna Lupardo Announces Retirement by the End of 2026
After serving in the Assembly for more than 20 years, Assemblymember Donna Lupardo announced that she will not seek reelection. Lupardo, who currently chairs the Assembly Committee on Agriculture, previously chaired the Aging Committee as well as Children and Families. She is the first woman to represent Broome County in the Legislature. “After this current term is over, I will leave the Assembly, but will remain active in the community, focusing on many causes and issues that I have worked to advance,” said Lupardo.
Erik Bottcher Running for Hoylman-Sigal's Senate Seat
NYC Councilmember Erik Bottcher announced that he will drop his bid for the crowded Democratic primary for Jerry Nadler’s congressional seat and will instead run for Brad Hoylman-Sigal’s senate seat. Hoylman-Sigal, who is now the Manhattan Borough President, quickly endorsed Bottcher and explained, “I have full confidence that Erik will continue the work in Albany to protect this vital community and focus on the needs of vulnerable New Yorkers everywhere.” Previously, it was expected that Assemblymember Linda Rosenthal would announce whether or not she would run for the Senate seat, and that Assemblymember Tony Simone would run if Rosenthal decided not to.
Former Assemblymember to Challenge Senator Jack Martins
Rory Lancman, former NYC Councilmember and Assemblymember for parts of Eastern Queens, has confirmed his campaign to challenge Long Island-based Senator Jack Martins. Branding himself as part of the “moderate wing” of the Democratic Party, Lancman explained that Martins “simply does not have a seat at the table when decisions are being made in Albany.” Lancman also explained that he wants to moderate the current political rhetoric, which has not addressed the “real issues.” “I’ve really had enough of people exploiting our fears, our anxieties, and our innate biases to score political victories without making a difference in our lives,” explained Lancman.
OTHER UPDATES
Claire Valdez Announces Campaign for Nydia Velázquez’s Congressional Seat
Yesterday morning, Assemblymember Claire Valdez announced her campaign for the outgoing Nydia Velázquez’s congressional seat. With Valdez joining the race, she will be facing off against Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso in an expected competitive primary. Valdez, a DSA member who joined the Assembly last year, explained that she is running for Velázquez’s seat because “We need a labor organizer in Washington who will turn Democratic power into a real opposition.” Reynoso, who is not a DSA member but is considered progressive by many of his allies and endorsed Mamdani, said, “I’ve spent over a decade delivering progressive wins for working-class New Yorkers, and I look forward to doing the same in Congress.”
Jabari Brisport Endorses Delgado Over Hochul
Earlier this week, Senator Jabari Brisport officially endorsed Lt.Gov Antiono Delgado for Governor, marking his first endorsement from the Legislature. “Antonio Delgado has shown he is willing to take on powerful interests, tax the ultra-wealthy, and partner with movements and legislators to deliver real change,” Brisport said on his reasoning to endorse Delgado. While it is unclear if other lawmakers will choose to endorse Delgado, Brisport said, “I was proud to be the first person. Someone’s got to be first, but there’s more coming.” Delgado also believes more lawmakers will soon endorse him over Hochul, saying, “They don’t want folks who are here to protect the status quo. They don’t want folks who are going to nibble around the edges. They want to see real decisive focus and action, and they want to feel impact.”
State Conservative Party Chair Endorses Bruce Blakeman
This week, the GOP presumptive nominee for governor, Bruce Blakeman, was endorsed by the state Conservative Party. The Conservative Party’s endorsement is the latest in a string of endorsements by GOP officials and leaders after Elise Stefanik unexpectedly announced her decision to drop out last month. Blakeman has also been endorsed by the state GOP Chair, Ed Cox, and President Trump, and is expected to be officially nominated in the state Republican Convention next month. “While Albany under Kathy Hochul raises taxes, weakens our laws, and ignores everyday families, I’ll take action,” said Blakeman.
Eric Adams Set Up Charter Revision Commission Before Leaving Office
Before the outgoing NYC Mayor Eric Adams left office, he announced a new Charter Revision Commission to “examine whether to bring open primaries and non-partisan elections” to the city’s local elections. While outgoing NYC Councilmember Bob Holden was expected to chair the commission when newsof it first broke, former Democratic Senate Minority Leader Martin Conner was picked as the chair after it was reported that Holden was possibly to blame for the leak. If the commission decides to move forward with open primaries, it would have to be put up for a public vote as a ballot measure, even if Mayor Mamdani or the Council opposes it.
Mayor Mamdani's First Executive Orders
In the first week of his mayoral administration, Mamdani signed several executive orders, including two emergency orders. The two emergency executive orders signed on Tuesday focus on conditions in the city’s unhoused shelters and jails, including Rikers. The first executive order signed by Mamdani nullified former Mayor Eric Adams’ executive orders after the Trump Administration pardoned him. Other executive orders signed by Mamdani include reestablishing the Tenant Protection Office and empowering his administration to address junk fees.
Julie Menin Elected as NYC Council Speaker
On Wednesday, in the NYC Council’s first Stated Meeting of 2026, Councilmember Julie Menin was unanimously elected as Speaker. While described by many as moderate, Menin said she will work in tandem with NYC Mayor Mamdani on affordability. “Our city has flourished because our foundation wasn’t built on simplistic paradigms – and because of our ability to hold two truths that may seem mutually exclusive, but are, in fact, mutually reinforcing,” explained Menin. Menin, the first Jewish Speaker, also touted the Council's and NYC's diversity. “We live in a day when the first Muslim mayor of New York City, and the first Jewish speaker of this council, are serving at the same time,” said Menin. Her Chief of Staff will be Miguelina Camilo, who has served in a senior role as Counsel to Assembly Speaker Heastie. Miguelina will be the first female and Latina to serve as COS to the City Council Speaker.
House Passes Three Year Extension of ACA Subsidies
Yesterday, the House advanced a bipartisan plan to extend the ACA tax subsidies after nine Republican lawmakers, including Hudson Valley’s Mike Lawler, signed a discharge petition to force a vote against Speaker Mike Johnson’s opposition. The forced vote comes after the ACA tax credits expired at the end of last week, leading to spikes in health insurance premiums. "We endeavored in a bipartisan negotiation after the shutdown to come up with a compromise bill that would extend the subsidies, but put in place necessary reforms," Lawler explained for his reasoning to join Democrats in voting for the extension. However, it is expected that the Senate will not vote to advance the extension. Senator Bernie Moreno, an Ohio Senator part of the bipartisan working group on the ACA, explained, “What the House is going to pass [] will not pass in the United States Senate.”
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