Governor Andrew Cuomo's "State of the State" address on Tuesday outlined the 2019-2020 budget, which included a list of major policy changes and proposed reforms. The New York state budget is set at $175.2 billion, representing a two percent increase over the previous budget.
Due to the Democratic control of the Senate, the Governor's wish list stands a better chance of becoming reality than it has in previous years. Key highlights in the Governor's speech and budget include:
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Potential streams of revenue for the state, resulting from legalization of marijuana and sports betting
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An overhaul of the state's election system, including same-day registration and broader absentee voting rights
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The proposal to impose congestion pricing in New York City to fund repairs to the subway system
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The state mandate for school districts to spend portions of their school aid on needy schools
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Proposed increases to education funding, including programs for after-school activities and pre-kindergarten
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Proposed $150 billion project to improve the state's infrastructure over a five-year period