New York lawmakers are uniting across party lines to challenge Gov. Kathy Hochul’s control over the state budget, according to Spectrum News. Nearly 30 senators are backing a proposed constitutional amendment to reduce the governor’s sway after a delayed and contentious budget process this year.
The amendment, spearheaded by State Sen. Gustavo Rivera and supported by both Democrats and Republicans, aims to prevent governors from embedding policy in budget bills. Lawmakers say Hochul’s insistence on including her proposals stalled negotiations and left them sidelined. Some senators, including James Skoufis, accused her of acting with unchecked authority and vowed to pursue the amendment relentlessly.
While leaders acknowledge the proposal’s long path — requiring approval in two sessions and a public vote — they say the debate over balancing power between the executive and Legislature is just beginning.
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