State lawmakers left Albany for the Easter weekend without a final budget, though major hurdles like discovery law reform appear resolved, according to legislative leaders. A temporary budget extender will keep government running until Wednesday, with lawmakers set to return Tuesday.
Two of Gov. Kathy Hochul’s key priorities—discovery law changes and a school cellphone ban—are reportedly nearing final form. Still up for debate are rules around involuntary commitment, face mask restrictions, and fiscal issues like rebate checks.
Despite lingering disagreements, especially on the controversial face mask proposal, Senate leaders expressed cautious optimism that the full budget could be finalized within the coming week.

