New York state lawmakers are still split on several key state budget issues, leading them to pass a series of budget extensions that are raising concerns that school districts could face financial planning complications.
State lawmakers passed their sixth budget extension on Wednesday, April 22, bringing the total amount spent on the late budget to $12.7 billion.
Policy issues such as adjustments to the state’s climate law, auto insurance reforms and changes to the state’s environmental review process have been holding up this year’s budget. Also thrown into the mix are Tier 6 pension reforms and a tax on New York City second homes.
Here’s the latest.
How could a late NY state budget affect local school district budgets?
As budget talks continue more than three weeks after its April 1 due date, many school districts could be in some trouble as most needed to distribute military ballots on Friday, April 24, and on Monday, April 27, all districts with budget votes are required to submit their “property tax report card” data to the state Department of Education, according to state law.
Those concerns were a main topic of discussion on both floors on Monday, April 20, to which Pretlow said he doesn’t believe the state is putting school districts in a position to have to make midyear adjustments, noting they will at least get the minimum outlined in Hochul’s proposed budget, or $39.3 billion.
And Sen. José Serrano, a New York City Democrat, said he recognizes there’s some urgency with the topic.
“We do have a little bit more time before that issue arises,” Serrano said. “And I feel pretty confident that we will complete this budget in time so that school districts can be able to manage appropriately. As in years past, even with late budgets, we’ve been able to get it done before that critical moment.”
But a late budget makes it difficult for school districts across the state to put together their budgets, the New York State Educational Conference Board, which includes the New York State United Teachers, says.
“The greater their district’s reliance on state support and the greater the uncertainty over what final school aid figures will be, the more time local leaders may need to evaluate options and settle on a budget proposal for voters to consider,” the board said in a written statement.
“We urge the Legislature and Governor to come to agreement soon on a state budget that adequately and effectively supports New York’s public schools.”
Emily Barnes covers state government for the USA TODAY Network-New York with a focus on how policy and laws impact New Yorkers’ taxes, communities and jobs. Follow her on Instagram or X @byemilybarnes. Get in touch at ebarnes@usatodayco.com.
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: How the late NY state budget could impact school districts
Reporting by Emily Barnes, New York State Team / Rochester Democrat and Chronicle
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
