Friday Morning Brief May 8, 2026
Member Spotlight
Senator Erik Bottcher
Senator Erik Bottcher joins us to discuss his district, priorities, and his passion for advocacy in his district and Albany. Prior to being elected to the Senate, he served his community in NYC Council first as a Chief of Staff to a Councilmember and then as a sitting Councilmember. Currently, he is serving as the Chair of Cities 1 and sits on various committees, including on Judiciary, Environmental Conservation, and Civil Services & Pensions.
What district do you represent?
I represent the 47th Senate District, which spans from Christopher Street, home of the historic Stonewall Inn, up to 103rd Street. As some like to say, it runs from the gay bars to Zabar’s.
What are some of the landmarks in your district?
We have some of the most iconic landmarks in New York City: the High Line, Lincoln Center, Central Park, the Theater District, and Hudson River Park. We’re also home to B&H Photo, which is a destination in its own right.
What kind of music do you enjoy? Favorite artists or bands?
My favorite bands are Queen and The Smashing Pumpkins.
What’s your favorite New York sports team?
The Knicks!
What was your profession before being elected to the Senate?
Before serving in the Senate, I was a New York City Council Member. Prior to that, I was Chief of Staff to my predecessor in the Council, Corey Johnson.
How has your experience in the City Council shaped your work in the Senate?
I spent 13 years in the City Council, and it’s been exciting to bring that experience and knowledge into a new legislative body. The scope is very different, and the style is different as well, so it’s been an exciting transition.
What inspired you to go into politics?
Each of us is only on this planet for a short amount of time — it goes by in a flash. The question is how we make the most of that time. For me, I can’t think of a bigger way to make an impact than by being involved in government and working to create systemic change. Seeing that change plays out in people’s lives is incredibly rewarding.
What are your priorities right now?
Addressing the housing crisis is at the top of the list. We can do everything right in every other area of policy, but if we don’t solve housing, we won’t make real progress. Whether it’s education, healthcare, or mental health, everything depends on people being able to afford a place to live. I want to be part of driving real solutions in that space.
Are there other issues you’re focused on?
The mental health crisis. For too long, we’ve treated mental health differently from physical health, and we’re seeing the consequences of that failure. People are suffering and, in some cases, dying from untreated mental illness on our streets. We can and must do better as a city. I want to help drive change and use my own story to contribute to that effort.
What advice would you give young people who want to get involved in politics?
Start showing up. Whether it’s a local political club, a community board meeting, a neighborhood cleanup, or a block association — just start showing up.
And don’t just go once — keep showing up. Find your place, find your passion, and be part of the solution. It’s always been a challenge to get young people involved, but it’s incredibly important and incredibly rewarding.
Any final comments?
I’m excited to be part of the Albany community. Over the past few months, it’s been interesting getting to know the city better. I want to be part of the solution in Albany, helping to revitalize and strengthen what was once a very vibrant city.
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.comto set up an interview!
Mike Groll/Office of Governor Kathy Hochul
Hochul Announces "General Agreement" On the Final Budget While Legislature Disagrees
Yesterday morning, Hochul announced that she and the Legislature have reached a "general agreement" on a $268 billion Final Budget. Although she recognized that details of the Final Budget must be finetuned, she said that bills for the Final Budget would be printed sometime next week.
In the $268 billion "general agreement", Hochul explained that she and the Legislature have agreed on addressing rising auto insurance premiums through pursuing fraud and staged accidents ring leaders, closing loopholes that allow at-fault individuals from collecting large payouts, restricting certain guidelines for how insurers can set rates, and putting a cap on excess insurers’ profit. Hochul also explained that there has been an agreement on SEQRA reforms, allowing fast-tracking of certain projects while ensuring necessary environmental protections. Additionally, Hochul said that immigration protections would be included in the Final Budget, including the Local Cops Local Crimes Act, as well as restricting immigration law enforcement from entering certain locations and prohibiting them from wearing masks.
Notably, aside from the pied-à-terre tax, Hochul reiterated that she would hold her ground on raising new taxes while ensuring that proposals, including universal childcare and healthcare, are appropriately funded, as well as ensuring roughly $15 billion in state reserves. In total, Hochul explained that the Final Budget would address the affordability concerns many voters are currently facing, stemming from the recent actions of the federal government. “The powerful in Washington have made life harder for New Yorkers and not easy,” explained Hochul.
However, almost immediately after the announcement, Heastie told reporters that “There’s no deal. I said to her last night [that] I was comfortable with her saying to y’all [that] we’re close. It is close. But this is what’s wrong with this process…I’m never doing this again.” Senate Deputy Leader Mike Gianaris also concurs, saying that the “Speaker is correct” that there is no agreement yet. Heastie also said that he’s “not conferencing anything else until I know what the financial picture is.” Notably, Heastie also said that some of the policies Hochul presented are “still incomplete” including changes to the CLCPA, saying that the Legislature “don’t even have the final language on [] the CLCPA.” Hinting at next year’s budget negotiation process, Heastie said, “I don't care if the budget doesn't get passed for six months. This thing about thinking you can starve members out, like, it's over. In my mind, it's over.”
Mike Groll/Office of Governor Kathy Hochul
EXECUTIVE UPDATES
On Wednesday, Hochul announced the completion of the $22 million affordable and supportive housing development in Ulster County. The 57-unit Silver Garden development, located near public transportation and healthcare services, will include 29 supportive units dedicated to seniors and those with additional support needs. Supported through combined federal, state, local, and private funds, the development is expected to support Hochul’s $25 billion five-year Housing Plan to create and preserve 100,000 affordable homes statewide. “Not only is Silver Gardens providing affordable homes, it’s also offering a supportive community where older residents have access to the services and amenities they need to live full, independent lives,” said Hochul.
Additionally, Hochul announced the start of a $72.3 million housing development in Rochester, which is expected to redevelop a vacant building into a 129-unit affordable housing development. Supported with federal, state, local, and private funds, the development is expected to prioritize studios, one-bedroom units, and two-bedroom unit options for households earning up to 80 percent of the Area Median Income. This development, along with the one in Ulster County, comes as Hochul announced that the state has created or preserved more than 22,000 affordable homes throughout the state during FY 2025-26. In total, the state has created or preserved more than 81,000 affordable homes over the first four years of Hochul’s $25 billion Housing Plan. With the record, Hochul also touted that her Executive Budget proposal to reform SEQRA would further strengthen the state’s tool for building or preserving more homes. “This record-setting year complements my Let Them Build initiative and shows what’s possible when we combine smart policy with strong investment,” explained Hochul.
Joined by US Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, Hochul announced the completion of a $65 million expansion of BAE Systems’ next-generation battery innovation operations in the Southern Tier. The expansion is expected to add approximately 150,000 square feet of new production, laboratory, and office space to support the development of high-voltage energy storage systems for electric and hybrid aircraft, and to create 130 new jobs. Part of Hochul’s strategy to expand the state’s advanced technology sector, the project also complements the state’s transition to renewable energy through targeted green investments in local economic development plans. “Since taking office, I have remained committed to bringing jobs back to Upstate New York. This incredibly successful company chose to grow its operations here, spurring top-quality, good-paying job creation in the region because they have seen firsthand how hardworking New Yorkers are,” explained Hochul.
On Tuesday, Hochul announced a record $23 million investment to strengthen law enforcement’s response to domestic violence and expand support services for survivors through the state’s STRIVE (Statewide Targeted Reductions in Intimate Partner Violence) initiative. The funding is expected to double the number of participating police departments, expand victim-centered services in 17 counties, and enhance coordination among law enforcement agencies, courts, and community-based providers to improve prevention efforts and hold offenders accountable. This recent funding builds upon Hochul’s commitment to prioritizing public safety, especially strengthening the state’s resources and tools for addressing domestic violence and protecting survivors. “Every survivor deserves to feel safe, supported, and heard…we are strengthening coordination across the justice system, expanding access to critical services, and giving local partners the resources they need to respond effectively to domestic violence,” explained Hochul.
On Monday, Hochul announced $42 million in new investments to support and expand Long Island’s aquaculture industry. Touted as part of the state’s broader effort to support the state’s blue economy, the investment is expected to help create new jobs, facilitate research, improve infrastructure, and prioritize sustainability. The investment is also expected to help the aquaculture industry address increasing instances of adverse weather events. In addition to supporting her 2024 State of the State Blue Food Transformation initiative, the investment will also help support local economic development in communities throughout Long Island.
LEGISLATIVE UPDATES
Next week, the Legislature is scheduled to be in session Monday to Thursday.
The Assembly is rumored to be planning session on Friday (and possibly the Senate as well)
Hochul and Lawmakers Poised to Work on Redistricting
Earlier this week, Rep. Joe Morelle, on behalf of House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, held a press conference alongside Hochul, explaining that state Democrats will work together on mid-decade redistricting to counteract other Republican states' gerrymandering of their congressional lines. “I’m going to continue this dialogue through the end of session, and hope that we can make some adjustments in the state constitution that would allow for fairer maps here in New York state,” explained Morelle. The press conference comes after Morelle spoke with Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie and Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins. The issue of mid-decade redistricting became prominent recently after the SCOTUS’ Callais decision, which weakened legal protections for majority-minority districts across the country.
“I don’t want New York, and I don't want Democrats to disarm and lead to a permanent majority by the Republicans because they engage in partisan gerrymandering,” Morelle explained on the importance of mid-decade redistricting for Democratic lawmakers. Currently, Senate Deputy Leader Mike Gianaris and Assemblymember Micah Lasher are leading efforts to amend the state constitution to authorize mid-decade redistricting. Although they recognize that the state cannot quickly amend the constitution for this year’s midterm, due to the requirement that constitutional amendments must pass in two consecutive sessions, Lasher explained, “But I think that everyone realizes that it would be a terrible decision to say, ‘Just because it can’t happen for the midterms, it shouldn't happen at all. That is the kind of short-term thinking that will kill us.”
Super Speeders Bill to be Included in the Final Budget
After much discussion, Hochul announced that the Final Budget would include a version of the Stop Super Speeders bill, as previously reported. This comes as the Assembly reportedly raised concerns about the bill, although Hochul and the Senate agreed to include it. Hochul explained that the version would require drivers to install a speed limiter in their cars after receiving 16 speeding tickets and notices. However, instead of making a misdemeanor for those who refuse to install a speed limiter, the Assembly agreed to impose a civil penalty. Assemblymember Emily Gallagher, the sponsor of the standalone bill, explained that Heastie is supportive of the proposal and that he “thinks the 16-ticket threshold is well beyond the pale of what is reasonable in terms of speeding tickets.”
Mike Groll/Office of Governor Kathy Hochul
School Aid in the Final Budget Still Being Finalized
Although Hochul announced that the nearly $40 billion would be included in the Final Budget, which is expected to result in a nearly 2% increase in funding for all school districts, she and her Budget Director, Blake Washington, confirmed that “there’s still variables that are under consideration with the Legislature to perfect the school aid runs beyond what was in the Executive Budget.” However, lawmakers are still requesting Hochul for additional funding for unhoused students and those in foster care. Notably, regarding mayoral control, the Final Budget is expected to extend it for 2 years to allow lawmakers to revisit the issue, as the NYC DOE has been working to reduce classroom sizes. “They want to give it a shorter window to have the opportunity to revisit,” Senate Deputy Leader Mike Gianaris said earlier this week.
Mamdani "Feeling Hopeful" on State Aid for Closing NYC's Budget Deficit
After Hochul’s reiteration that she would not include any increased taxes in the Final Budget, Mayor Zohran Mamdani explained that he is still “feeling hopeful about the directions of those negotiations” for addressing NYC’s $5.4 billion budget deficit. Mamdani and NYC Council Speaker Julie Menin have also requested Hochul to change PTET for NYC to generate about $1 billion in additional revenue. However, Hochul said that would not be included in the Final Budget. Heastie reiterated that various issues, including details of aid for Mamdani, are still under discussion. Additionally, it was reported that the Final Budget could reduce NYC's deficit to $1.2 billion.
Darren McGee/Office of Governor Kathy Hochul
Scaled Down Tier 6 Changes to be in the Final Budget
Regarding Tier 6 changes, Hochul confirmed in her presentation that the Final Budget would include some version of those changes. However, she reiterated that the final version would not be as “generous” as the previous proposals reported. Citing concerns for municipalities amid budget deficits in various cities, Hochul explained that scaling back the changes in the Final Budget would still help attract the workforce while disproportionately benefiting municipalities.
Healthcare Spending Still Being Discussed in the Final Budget
Notably, Hochul did not offer any details regarding healthcare in her presentation. However, she later told reporters that she and the Legislature are still working out the details of the final state aid for healthcare, including health insurance. However, she explained that the final number would be “roughly” similar to what was originally proposed in the Executive Budget, while ensuring that the state appropriately invests in hospitals and mitigates the impacts of recent federal government actions. Currently, Hochul and the Legislature must still agree on proposals regarding the scope of practice and the independent dispute-resolution process, as well as addressing the impacts of the Essential Plan transition to the previously used Basic Health Plans.
NYC Public Advocate Endorses Jordan Wright
This week, Assemblymember Jordan Wright, who is facing a primary challenge from DSA-backed Conrad Blackburn, received a notable endorsement from NYC Public Advocate Jumanne Williams, who is seen as an ally for Mamdani. Although Mamdani has not endorsed Blackburn, it was reported that he is under pressure to back DSA-backed candidates for races in the Legislature. However, Wright has praised Mamdani for his work as mayor and said, “The mayor has been someone I’ve been excited to work with in his time as the mayor. I’ve appeared with him in a number of initiatives that he’s had in my district.” Also notably, Wright received an endorsement from Capital Region-based Assemblymember Gabriella Romero, who is also seen as a progressive champion and has a similar background to Blackburn.
OTHER UPDATES
WFP Declines to Endorse Candidates for State Comptroller Primary
After vetting Drew Warshaw and Raj Goyle, who are primarying State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli, the Working Families Party declined to endorse either. Although Warshaw and Goyle have been positioning themselves as progressive alternatives to DiNapoli and seeking the WFP endorsement, WFP Director Jasmine Gripper explained that “While many affiliates will make endorsements of their own, the Working Families Party did not come to a consensus on a candidate.”
However, Warshaw received the most votes for the endorsement, with DiNapoli, who also sought it, receiving the second-most votes. Goyle was knocked out of the first round after receiving less than 10% of the total votes. “Progressive New Yorkers sent an unmistakable signal tonight – that after 20 years of the same, it is time we do it different,” Warshaw in a statement. WFP’s decision not to endorse any candidates for State Comptroller comes after it previously declined to endorse either Hochul or Lt. Governor Antonio Delgado for the Governor's primary election.
Trump Border Czar Threatens Increased Immigration Enforcement if State Passes Sanctuary Policies
Even before Hochul’s Budget announcement, which included policies to protect immigrants, President Trump's Border Czar Tom Homan warned that the federal government would expand its immigration enforcement operations if the state approved policies akin to sanctuary measures. “What’s going to happen with places like New York and [if] people pass ridiculous legislation not to work with us, we’re going to flood the zone,” Homan explained. However, Hochul told reporters that she disregarded those threats and explained that immigration protection policies are essential for protecting immigrant communities. “States like New York can and must be a guardrail against ICE overreach,” said Hochul.
Lawmakers Urge Mamdani to Change How NYPD Interact with ICE Agents
After videos of the NYPD blocking protestors advancing towards ICE agents conducting an operation in Brooklyn’s Wyckoff Heights Medical Center circulated online, lawmakers and advocates criticized the NYPD and urged Mamdani to impose stricter guidelines on them. Lawmakers, including those who endorsed Mamdani last year, such as Rep. Nydia Velázquez and Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso, explained that they believe the NYPD “coordinated on the ground with ICE agents” and that “NYPD officers visibly working alongside ICE.” This comes as Mamdani is also scrutinizing an NYPD contract with a surveillance technology company that also contracts with ICE.
Other Interesting Friday Reads
Will Mamdani's Rent Guidelines Board back a freeze? Here comes the first test. - Gothamist
Two Brooklyn legislators got in a tussle. Now they’re running against each other. - City & State New York
Disabled New Yorkers Oppose Bill to End 24-Hour Shifts for Home Aides | THE CITY — NYC News
How James Skoufis Wins in One of NY's Reddest Blue Districts - New York Focus
State audit slams NYC schools for lack of student data privacy oversight - Chalkbeat
Buffalo Mayor Sean Ryan indicates interest in charter reform : Investigative Post
Lawmakers demand details about Rikers grievance overhaul — Queens Daily Eagle
In race to represent District 69, Jewish Theological Seminary’s Stephanie Ruskay wants to create ‘bright spots’ of democracy - Columbia Spectator
Opinion: Legalize bodega cats - City & State New York
Tennessee approves new congressional map - The Tennessean
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