Topics Affordability
A photo collage of a shopping basket full of groceries, in front of a yellow-tinted photo of a calendar with "work" written in many of the days.
New SNAP Rules in NY: What To Know If You Lost Benefits

We’ve compiled information for SNAP recipients in New York on the changing work requirements.

Jie Jenny Zou   ·   June 2, 2026
A photo collage of Governor Kathy Hochul in front of a yellow-tinted card explaining New York State of Health's Essential Plan.
No Solution to Health Coverage Cliff in Delayed State Budget

Despite last-ditch efforts by a coalition of lawmakers, the state failed to avert a health coverage cliff coming this summer.

Jie Jenny Zou   ·   May 28, 2026
A photo collage of Governor Kathy Hochul in front of a yellow-tinted photo of four smokestacks.
State Budget Thrashes Landmark Climate Law

Governor Kathy Hochul was successful in her bid to upend the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act after legislators caved to finalize an overall budget deal.

Amudalat Ajasa and Nick Garber   ·   May 27, 2026
Four young children sit around a table, playing with clay.
New State Law Could Unlock Thousands of Child Care Seats, Critics See Risks

The Hochul administration now has a chance to relax New York’s child care staffing ratios — among the country’s strictest — after 26 years. But will it?

Melissa Manno   ·   May 12, 2026
Hochul Avoids Campaign Matching Funds — and a Fundraiser Disclosure Rule

Also: A super PAC targets Democratic Socialists.

Chris Bragg and Nick Garber   ·   April 28, 2026
Advocates Say ‘Chaos’ Is Mounting as Counties Implement New SNAP Rules

New rules could result in thousands of New Yorkers losing their food benefits this summer.

Jie Jenny Zou   ·   April 27, 2026
Gas Industry Eyes Comeback as New York Weighs Climate Law Delays

Fossil fuel interests have enlisted prominent former elected officials to make the case that gas is here to stay.

Colin Kinniburgh   ·   April 10, 2026
Child Care Voucher Enrollment Is Closed in 34 New York Counties and NYC

That number is up from 21 last July. New York City’s waitlist alone has surged to over 17,000 — a tenfold increase in less than a year.

Melissa Manno   ·   March 31, 2026
Mamdani Stays Mum on Albany Climate Fight

Some climate activists want the mayor to take a stronger stance. He previously said the state’s climate law “is not a suggestion. It is a mandate.”

Nick Garber and Colin Kinniburgh   ·   March 26, 2026
Lawmakers Join Battery Developers in Fight With ConEd Over NYC’s Grid

ConEd says New York’s battery boom could overload the grid. The industry and its allies are pushing back.

Colin Kinniburgh   ·   March 13, 2026
How a Fee To Fight Insurance Fraud Became a Cash Cow for Police

Critics say the $10 annual fees state drivers pay to fight car insurance theft and fraud aren’t being used as intended.

Chris Bragg   ·   March 11, 2026
What’s Behind the Escalating Fight Over New York’s Climate Law?

The legislature left the climate law untouched for now, but Governor Kathy Hochul could still push for changes in coming weeks.

Colin Kinniburgh   ·   March 10, 2026
Thousands of 4-Year-Olds Couldn’t Apply to Universal Pre-K Last School Year

Dozens of school districts have opted out of the state’s program. Will the governor’s proposed funding boost be enough to help school districts close the gaps?

Melissa Manno   ·   March 9, 2026
New Legislation Would Advance ‘Virtual Power Plants’ in New York

A bill introduced by Assemblymember Anna Kelles aims to harness home batteries, electric vehicles, and other clean tech to meet reliability needs.

Colin Kinniburgh   ·   March 4, 2026
Mamdani’s Small Business Czar Wants Economic Justice for Workers

As Small Business Services commissioner, Kenny Minaya will be charged with slashing fees and helping street vendors.

Nick Garber   ·   March 2, 2026
How to Push Utilities Toward a Cheaper, Cleaner Future: A Q&A With Jigar Shah

The energy expert discusses his vision for a more flexible grid — and what’s standing in the way.

Colin Kinniburgh and Jack Carroll   ·   February 28, 2026
Is a Solution to New York’s Food Stamp Theft Finally on the Horizon?

New Yorkers could see new benefit cards in 2027 as officials pledge to prioritize a long-awaited upgrade.

Jie Jenny Zou   ·   February 27, 2026
How a More Flexible Grid Could Save New York Billions

Officials have long eyed “virtual power plants,” which coordinate energy use across thousands of homes, but the state has lagged in adopting them.

Jack Carroll and Colin Kinniburgh   ·   February 18, 2026
Three Questions About Medicaid for New York Officials

State officials have so far dodged questions about the future of New York’s largest health plan. A hearing on Tuesday could provide some insight.

Jie Jenny Zou   ·   February 9, 2026
Five Questions for New York’s Social Service Agencies

Will this week’s budget hearing provide insight into the state’s plan to salvage its safety net?

Jie Jenny Zou, Melissa Manno and Chris Gelardi   ·   February 4, 2026
1 2 3