New York’s Cap and Invest program remains active despite Gov. Kathy Hochul’s decision to exclude its full rollout from her executive budget, according to interim Environmental Conservation Commissioner Sean Mahar. He emphasized that prioritizing emissions reporting regulations first is not a delay but a step toward proper implementation.
Lawmakers debated the program’s timeline, with Assemblymember Anna Kelles warning that postponing regulations could slow climate progress. Electric school buses were also a major concern, with Republicans urging a pause on the mandate, citing challenges for rural districts. Officials reassured lawmakers that state agencies are developing programs to assist schools in meeting the 2027 deadline.
Democrats acknowledged school district concerns but argued adequate funding could ease the transition. NYSERDA officials reminded critics that major changes to the mandate would require new legislation.
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