Gov. Kathy Hochul appears to be backing away from her controversial proposal to restrict mask-wearing during crimes, suggesting the issue may be delayed or scaled back, according to Spectrum News. State Sen. James Skoufis, who originally introduced the idea, said it might now function only as a sentencing enhancement rather than a standalone offense.
The change comes amid concerns over civil rights and religious or protest-related mask use. Hochul acknowledged the proposal was added late in budget talks and may not belong in the current package. Skoufis warned that postponing the issue could sink it altogether.
Meanwhile, debates over rebate checks, involuntary commitment reforms, and school funding continue to stall the state budget. Lawmakers are expected to pass more extensions before reaching a final deal.
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