Legislature to pass extender Thursday, earthquake inspires new bill

Plus, On The Bill looks at cameras in state courtrooms.

Good afternoon — it’s Wednesday, and Farm Animals Day. 🐷

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 10, 2024

TODAY’S CAPCON:

• Where things stand on the state budget

• Why Republicans say they don’t want Good Cause

• Last week’s earthquake has inspired a new bill

• On The Bill looks at video and audio recording in court

🔨 Is Tomorrow a Session Day? Not scheduled, but yes.

☁️ Tonight’s Weather: Albany: Showers likely, low 50s. New York City: Chance of showers, low 50s (National Weather Service)

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The state Assembly in January. (Lori Van Buren/Times Union)

💵 Lawmakers back in session Thursday for extender, budget talks continue

💰 We did not expect a deal on the state budget Wednesday, so it’s no surprise that one wasn’t announced.

It was a quiet day at the Capitol — a contrast to Tuesday, when advocates made a last-minute push for new protections for tenants to avoid eviction and tax hikes on high-income earners.

• Nine of those advocates were arrested after one group blocked the door to the Hall of Governors, where Hochul’s office is located.

Many lawmakers are still in Albany ahead of Thursday’s expected vote on another budget extender. That will allow spending through Tuesday.

• Gov. Kathy HOCHUL and legislative leaders want to have a final deal on the budget by then to avoid a fifth extender.

• And, as we’ve told you, next week is crucial. The week after is Passover, which would make passing the budget next to impossible.

Senate Housing Chair Brian KAVANAGH told reporters Wednesday afternoon that talks on a deal to spur housing growth in New York are ongoing.

“We’re continuing to negotiate toward a comprehensive deal that would protect tenants and homeowners and would provide for additional rental assistance and also spur construction in both New York City and beyond,” Kavanagh said.

Hochul, meanwhile, spent part of the morning rallying with Rev. Al Sharpton in Manhattan, where the National Action Network Convention is happening this week.