New York expects to spend $5.7 billion more in state operating funds next year

And a judge ruled that the state's Climate Act allows it to deny power permits.

Good afternoon — it’s Friday and America Recycles Day.

In today’s CapCon:

• Hochul and the Legislature are estimating a multibillion dollar increase in spending in state operating funds in the next budget.

• Assemblyman Eddie Gibbs just won reelection but may be departing the Legislature.

• New York’s Climate Act gives the state power to reject power plant permits, a state judge has ruled.

• A new federal prosecutor is coming to Manhattan. Mayor Eric Adams was asked Friday if he’s angling for a presidential pardon.

• New Bills of Note: voting from prison, domestic violence crimes

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❗ CapCon note: If you received a survey from us recently, could you take a few minutes to help us out? You can also reply to this email with feedback. Thanks!

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🗣️ Join me for a panel discussion on the future of health care

Hey all! I’m moderating a panel this coming Thursday in Albany on the future of health care in New York at CoveringNY, an annual conference hosted by the New York State Health Plan Association.

I’ll be joined by Paul Zuber from the Business Council, Claire Brockbank from the 32BJ Benefit Fund, Maureen Regan from the New York State Society of PAs, Jihoon Kim from InUnity Alliance and Micky Jiminez from Capitol District LATINOS.

If you’re interested, here’s how you can register for the conference. See you there!

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Budget Director Blake Washington (Dan Clark/Times Union)

💵 Hochul administration, lawmakers estimate $5B increase in state budget

State spending is estimated to increase by $5.7 billion in next year’s state budget, according to numbers announced at this year’s Quick Start meeting Friday.