New York Focus
NEWSLETTER
 
Despite her professed zeal for the veto pen, Hochul axed a smaller share of bills last year. Photo: Office of Governor Kathy Hochul | Illustration: Maia Hibbett
One hundred and fifteen laws that almost were.
By New York Focus

Governor Kathy Hochul wants the world to know that she takes her role in the legislative process seriously — and isn’t afraid to kill legislation she doesn’t like.

“This year the State Legislature passed 896 bills – more than 500 of which passed in the final days of the session – most without a single hearing or opportunity for public comment,” her office said in a statement just before Christmas. “These included a number of extreme legislative proposals that would have put public safety or the state’s economic recovery at risk.”

Hochul, the statement continued, “didn’t hesitate to use her veto pen when necessary to prevent harm to New Yorkers.” 

Hochul turned down transparency measures, preserved campaign finance reforms, and rejected 113 other would-be laws. We listed them all.

Over the next few months, New York Focus reporters will be digging into the budget process, analyzing the state’s spending priorities and explaining what that will mean for New Yorkers across the state.

What do you want to know about the budget? Submit your budget related questions to New York Focus reporters.
 
 
How would Kathy do? Photo: Mike Groll / Office of Governor Kathy Hochul | Illustration: Maia Hibbett
Thanks for a great 2023. To show our gratitude, we're giving you a test.
By New York Focus

In case you missed it: we have our first-ever quiz. Do you know who runs New York?

This year, we’re continuing our statewide, community listening campaign to understand how New Yorkers are experiencing local news and what we can do to better meet your needs. We want to hear from you! Please take a few minutes to complete our survey. The next 70 responses will receive a $10 gift card.
 

We at New York Focus are so proud to have spent the year producing deeply reported accountability journalism that reveals how our state works. Take a look back at some of our highlights of 2023!
 
 

Copyright © New York Focus 2023, All rights reserved.
Staying Focused is compiled and written by Alex Arriaga
Contact Alex at alex@nysfocus.com

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