A tentative compromise on New York’s discovery laws has been struck between Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie and the state’s five district attorneys. But Governor Kathy Hochul is not ready to sign off, keeping the state budget stalled.
The deal would shift the evidence handover standard from “related” to “relevant” — a key concern for Hochul — while allowing exceptions in police misconduct cases. It also limits how long defense teams can challenge disclosures. Though lawmakers seem willing to move forward, some are doing so reluctantly, hoping to end the prolonged standoff.
Despite the DAs’ approval, Hochul emphasized the deal isn’t done. She reiterated that discovery reform remains a make-or-break issue in budget talks and warned there’s still much left to resolve.
Mental Health Fight to Dominate Next Budget Round
Now though, attention is shifting to Hochul’s push for expanded involuntary psychiatric treatment, according to Spectrum News. The proposal has triggered backlash from lawmakers and faith leaders who say forced care isn’t the answer.
Hochul wants clinicians to have clearer authority to commit individuals unable to meet basic needs, arguing it’s essential for public safety. But critics warn the state lacks the services to support such an expansion, and say it risks harming vulnerable communities, especially people of color.
Despite ongoing staff-level negotiations, lawmakers remain divided. Hochul has signaled she’s willing to hold the budget hostage for this priority, while some legislators insist they’ll resist into May if necessary.
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