Member Spotlight

Assemblywoman Larinda Hooks

This week, Assemblywoman Larinda Hooks joins us to discuss her district, priorities, and her experience as a community and civic leader. Before being elected to the Assembly, she advocated for her community through various civic associations on various issues. Currently, she serves on multiple committees, including Banks, Economic Development, and Transportation committees.

What district do you represent?
I represent New York State Assembly District 35 in Queens, which includes the neighborhoods of Corona, East Elmhurst, LeFrak City, Rego Park, and parts of Forest Hills. It’s one of the most diverse communities in the country, and I’m proud to represent families from so many cultures and backgrounds.

What are some landmarks that are in your district?
Our district is home to some incredible landmarks. Flushing Meadows–Corona Park is one of the most iconic parks in New York City and includes the Unisphere, Queens Theatre, and the New York Hall of Science. We’re also proud to have the Louis Armstrong House Museum, which celebrates the life and legacy of one of the greatest jazz musicians in history.

What is your favorite music/genres/artists/bands?
I enjoy a wide range of music. Growing up in Queens, hip-hop and R&B were always part of the culture, so I appreciate artists like Method Man. And during the holiday, I absolutely love Christmas music—it always brings a sense of joy and nostalgia.

What about sports?
I’m a Mets fan and a Jets fan, so I stay loyal to my New York teams. Sports are a big part of our culture in Queens, and I always enjoy seeing young people in our community involved in athletics and staying active.

What was your profession before being elected to the Assembly?
Before being elected to the Assembly, I spent many years as a community organizer and civic leader, advocating for residents in East Elmhurst and Corona. I served as President of the Ericsson Street Block Association and later as President of the Executive Board of the East Elmhurst–Corona Civic Association, working to improve public safety and quality of life for our neighbors. I also worked with organizations like the East Harlem Council for Community Improvement and held leadership roles at Elmcor Youth & Adult Activities, where I helped expand programs that support families, seniors, and young people in our community.

What are some issues you are working on this year?
One of my priorities this year has been addressing the rise of “ghost job” postings and improving transparency in the hiring process. I introduced a package of legislation that would require employers to disclose whether a job posting represents an actual vacancy, ensure outdated listings are removed from job platforms, and require human oversight when automated systems are used to screen job applicants. We are working on these issues because people deserve a fair chance to work and find a real job, and the hiring process should be transparent and honest for job seekers.

Are there any issues that are specific to your district?
Like many communities in Queens, our district is focused on housing affordability, public safety, and supporting small businesses. Residents in neighborhoods like Corona and East Elmhurst work incredibly hard, and my goal is to ensure they have access to opportunity, safe public spaces, and the resources they need to thrive.

What advice would you give to young folks who want to get more involved in politics?
My advice is to start by getting involved in your community. Attend local meetings, volunteer, talk to your neighbors, and learn about the issues affecting your neighborhood. Public service begins with caring about your community and being willing to work toward solutions.

Any last comments?
It’s truly an honor to represent Assembly District 35. Queens is one of the most vibrant and diverse places in the world, and I remain committed to ensuring our communities are safe, supported, and full of opportunity for the next generation.

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Aung Hset/D&A

Three-Way Budget Negotiations Officially Underway

With the “Mothership” General Conference committee and Joint Budget Subcommittees meeting earlier this week, budget negotiations have officially started between Hochul and the Legislature.

Taxes are expected to be one of the sticking points, with Hochul reiterating her opposition to increasing taxes on high earners, in contrast to the Legislature's support of tax hikes. The Assembly has proposed to increase personal income taxes by 0.2 percentage points, or up to 10% from the current levels, for the highest earners. Meanwhile, the Senate is proposing a 0.5 percentage point surcharge on the top two income tax brackets. On corporate tax increases, the Assembly proposes raising it from 9% to 10.8% for financial firms and from 8.85% to 10.62% for other businesses. In comparison, the Senate proposes raising the top corporate tax rate from 7.25% to 9% on business income over $5 million.

Aside from taxes, Hochul’s proposal to address insurance fraud to lower premiums has become one of the more high profile issues policy proposals being discussed. While largely opposed by trial lawyers, Hochul recently released a video and rallied with local lawmakers, unions, advocates, non-profits, organizations, and businesses to highlight the benefits of her proposal, including reductions in frivolous litigation and savings for the state and businesses. While the Senate and the Assembly excluded Hochul’s proposals from their respective one house budget bills, lawmakers did include resolution language in support of working with stakeholders to lower auto insurance premiums. On working with the Legislature, Hochul said, “New Yorkers deserve this. They need elected officials who are willing to take on the deeply entrenched interests that have prohibited anyone from even retouching reforms in our legal system or going after criminals. We need a little bit more courage in public life these days.”

Environmental protection is also expected to be another contentious issue for Hochul and the Legislature, with Hochul expected to unveil her proposal to change the state’s CLCPA. In addition to possibly changing the formula for calculating GHG emissions, Hochul told reporters this week that she wants a “longer runway” on meeting the CLCPA goals. “All the goals we’re supposed to meet would have to be met by 2030, 2031. That’s not possible without prices going up,” explained Hochul. However, lawmakers, including Senate Finance Chair Liz Krueger, have opposed any changes to the CLCPA and have called the recent NYSERDA memo on the CLCPA's costs “flawed.”

With roughly a week and a half before the budget deadline, it remains to be seen if Hochul and the Legislature agree to an on-time budget. “I always strive for an on-time budget... But if you look at what we achieved in overtime, all my priorities have been implemented,” Hochul remarked.

Mike Groll/Office of Governor Kathy Hochul

EXECUTIVE UPDATES

On Wednesday, Hochul rallied with advocates and labor leaders to promote her Executive Budget proposals on auto insurance and fraud. Aimed at lowering the state’s high insurance premiums, Hochul explained that her proposals to crack down on fraud, staged crashes, and legal loopholes would help mitigate frivolous lawsuits, which are helping increase auto insurance costs for households, businesses, and state agencies, including the MTA, which announced that the enactment of the proposal would save the agency $48 million. The proposal builds upon Hochul’s overall affordability-focused agenda, which seeks to address the state’s affordability crisis on multiple fronts.

Earlier this week, Hochul announced the availability of $20 million in state grants to eligible providers for medication abortion healthcare services. Provided through the state Supplemental Abortion Provider Support Fund, the 22 potential awardees have already been notified of their eligibility. Through the funding, the awardees are expected to support covering costs related to providers’ recruitment, training, care management, and outreach. The funding builds upon the state’s commitment to protecting medication abortion, including millions of dollars in funding to support abortion providers. “New York will always remain a safe haven for people seeking care, and I will never back down from fighting to protect access to health care that thousands of New Yorkers rely on,” explained Hochul.

Amid President Trump’s decision to shift resources from federal agencies to immigration enforcement, Hochul called on the President, HHS, and DHS to reverse efforts to reduce services provided through the WTC Health Program. The program has been providing healthcare services to roughly 140,000 first responders experiencing 9/11-related illness, but has seen a 25% reduction in staff since last year, to fewer than 85 employees. Hochul explained that with already increased funding for immigration enforcement, the federal government must ensure adequate services to first responders expericing 9/11-relataed illness. “Reducing staff for an essential health program that has already faced drastic cuts to support an out-of-control enforcement agency with a history of failing to protect Americans is reprehensible,” said Hochul.

On Tuesday, Hochul announced the start of an $8.2 million project to replace the aging Malden Turnpike bridge over the I-87 in Ulster County. Upon completion of the project, expected in Fall 2026, it will replace the 80-year-old bridge that carries about 2,000 vehicles daily. The project is part of a broader capital plan to upgrade transportation assets across the state and ensure long-term reliability. The project also builds upon Hochul’s actions to modernize the state’s critical infrastructure and improve roadway safety. “When our roads and bridges are upgraded, we improve the driving experience for daily commuters and the commercial vehicles that New York relies on to move goods and services throughout our state and across the nation,” said Hochul.

Additionally, Hochul announced the start of a $34.6 million project that will expand the historic Shea’s Buffalo Theatre. With state funding of $18.5 million, including $5 million in additional capital funding, the project is expected to expand lobby and event space, implement accessibility upgrades, and add new concession stands. Reflecting the state’s broader commitment to advancing the arts, the project is also expected to support local economic growth and job prospects for residents. “By investing in this iconic venue, we’re investing in the future of Buffalo’s cultural and economic vitality by supporting hundreds of jobs, area shops and restaurants,” explained Hochul.

LEGISLATIVE UPDATES

Next week, the Legislature is scheduled to be in session Monday to Thursday

The Budget is due by Wednesday, April 1st

Senator Jabari Brisport Criticizes Hochul Over Childcare Funding

Yesterday, it was reported that Senator Jabari Brisport has criticized Hochul’s childcare proposal for failing to allocate additional funding for the state’s transition to universal free childcare. While Hochul did propose increasing state funding for child care vouchers by $1.2 billion, Brisport explained that Hochul’s proposal is inadequate and that lawmakers have been requesting funding. “In New York City alone, that waitlist exploded to 16,000 families who, by law, were allowed to get help with child care, [but] weren’t getting any,” said Brisport. Hochul’s spokesperson criticized Brisport and touted the $8 billion in childcare funding Hochul has invested since taking office.

Lawmakers Urge for More Support for Rural Ambulance Networks in the Final Budget

Following the release of a task force report on the state of rural ambulance networks, lawmakers are urging Hochul and legislative leaders to address the state’s Medicaid reimbursement rates for emergency medical services. Lawmakers and rural ambulance networks explained that, because a third of the population in rural counties is on Medicaid, and given current Medicaid rates, ambulance networks are losing money on every encounter. Additionally, lawmakers warned that Hochul’s Executive Budget proposal to terminate Medicaid crossover payments for patients on Medicare would exacerbate the issue, which was excluded from both the respective Senate and Assembly One-House Budgets. “The longer we wait, we [] know the more expensive and difficult this will be to fix,” said Assemblymember Angelo Santabarbara.

Susan Watts/Office of Governor Kathy Hochul

Lawmakers to Discuss Support for NYC Classroom Size Reduction Mandate

To help NYC comply with state-mandated reductions in classroom size, lawmakers are discussing whether to give NYC more funding or more time to comply. Currently, NYC must comply by September, which will require 6,000 extra teachers with an additional cost of $602 million annually. While the Assembly included a proposal to give NYC $600 million, the Senate did not include any additional funding. Additionally, Assembly Education Chair Mike Benedetto said, “We were trying to help them meet that cost,” and expressed some openness to granting a time extension. However, lawmakers are still urging NYC to provide more details on their plan to reduce classroom sizes. “If it makes it [through] the budget, that’s fine with me… But I do want to see a plan of action from the city,” said Assemblymember Chantel Jackson. It remains unclear whether Hochul will support additional funding or an extension.

Lawmakers Urge the Inclusion of 250-Foot Buffer Zone in the Final Budget

After an attack in a synagogue in Michigan last week, lawmakers are urging the leaders of the Legislature to approve Hochul’s proposal for a 25-foot buffer zone for protests near religious centers. While opposed by some advocates and lawmakers, Assemblywoman Nily Rozic explained that the proposal has “a lot of interest and momentum.” "Every other day, there is something else happening at places of worship or schools across the country, and Jewish New Yorkers really fear for their lives," explained Rozic.

Senator Kevin Parker to Introduce 2-Year Nuclear Energy Moratorium

With Hochul and some lawmakers supporting the expansion of nuclear energy, it was reported that Senator Kevin Parker plans to introduce a bill that would impose a 2-year moratorium on new nuclear power plants. Last year, Hochul directed the state’s power authority to build 1 gigawatt of new nuclear power plants and, earlier this year, authorized an expansion for 4 more gigawatts. However, advocates and lawmakers, including Parker, argue that the state should explore alternative energy sources, such as solar, and address public health and safety concerns. “We’re going to put the bill in and hope we can spark a healthy debate. I’m concerned about the safety and health of [the] surrounding communities. I’m concerned about the cost,” explained Parker.

Assembly Republicans Introduce Bill to Implement Recommendations from the HALT Committee

This week, Assembly Republican lawmakers held a press conference on a recently introduced bill to implement recommendations made by the HALT Committee. The bill comes as DOCCS is unable to fill 4,600 correction officer positions and as the continued stationing of the National Guard in state prisons costs the state $50 million per month. The recommendations of the HALT Committee, established to increase safety and compensation for staffers at state prisons after a strike last year, were not implemented by the state. “After the years of policies that have driven correction officers out of the workforce and made our prisons more dangerous for both staff and inmates, it’s no surprise our correctional system is in crisis,” Assembly Republican Leader Ed Ra explained on the necessity of the bill.

Aung Hset/D&A

Bipartisan Group of Lawmakers Urge Funding for Thermal Networks in the Final Budget

Joined by advocates and labor leaders, a bipartisan group of lawmakers held a rally to urge Hochul and leaders of the Legislature to include a $200 million for building thermal networks, which are shared heating and cooling systems. In support of the request, Senate Labor Chair Jessica Ramos explained that supporting thermal networks would ensure new job opportunities, lower utility rates, and help the state reach its climate goals. “We know that we can reach a cleaner energy future without sacrificing jobs or costing New Yorkers and families billions of dollars,” explained Senate Republican Ranker Mario Mattera. Senator Dan Stec, the Republican Ranker on the Environmental Conservation Committee, also explained, “We do not need a one-size-fits-all approach to energy policy,” he said. “That’s only going to lead us to failure and to great expense.”

OTHER UPDATES

Susan Watts/Office of Governor Kathy Hochul

Tish James Joins Lawsuit Against the EPA

Yesterday, state Attorney General Tish James announced that she has joined a lawsuit challenging the Trump Administration’s efforts to repeal the EPA’s “endangerment finding". Along with two dozen states and more than two dozen cities and counties, the lawsuit alleges that repealing the determination would repeal the various climate regulations, including mission standards for vehicles, and could limit the federal government’s ability to address climate pollution under the Clean Air Act, ultimately weakening protections for public health and the environment. “Instead of helping Americans face our new reality, the Trump administration has chosen denial, repealing critical protections that are foundational to the federal government’s response to climate change,” explained James.

Nicole Malliotakis's Congressional Redistricting Dismissed in State Court

After the recent SCOTUS decision on the redistricting of Staten Island-based GOP Rep. Nicole Malliotakis’ seat, plaintiffs have agreed to dismiss the state court case against Malliotakis. While a state judge had initially ordered the Independent Redistricting Commission to reconvene and produce new lines that could have made the district more competitive, SCOTUS intervened with an unprecedented decision and indicated skepticism of the legal rationale, particularly around the use of race in map-drawing. However, lawmakers, including the sponsors of the Legislature’s mid-decade redistricting constitutional amendment, Senator Mike Gianaris and Assemblymember Micah Lasher, still plan to move forward with mid-decade redistricting after the Final Budget.

Mamdani Announces New Office of Community Safety

Yesterday, NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced the establishment of a new Office of Community Safety, a major campaign promise to shift the current public safety model towards a more public health-focused mode. The new office, which will be organized into three divisions, is expected to coordinate existing public safety programs, including violence prevention, hate crime prevention, and neighborhood safety initiatives, and to help divert some 911 calls to social workers. Although Mamdani created the new office through an executive order rather than seeking NYC Council approval for a new department, Mamdani and advocates explained that the new office will shift certain public safety actions away from law enforcement officers. “For too long, we have approached crime and safety by placing only ever-expanding expectations on the Police Department as we have asked them to address every failure of our social safety net,” said Mamdani.

Friday Morning Brief March 20, 2026

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Friday Morning Brief March 20, 2026

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