Budget Update
As we write this recap, the NYS Legislature is still in budget negotiations in Albany. The budget was due April 1. It currently remains unclear when a final deal will be reached.
Among the items we are looking at for Catholic schools are securing additional funds for Health, Safety & Security initiatives, instructional materials, and Academic Intervention Services for our students. Lawmakers are also considering a $2 billion bond issue, which would need voter approval, to provide updated technology funding for energy efficiency projects for schools.
In terms of human services, the state’s Council of Catholic Charities Directors is looking for full funding for the Health Home program, which provides care coordination for health, behavioral health and human services care to at-risk children and others. They also seek additional funding for the statewide supervised visit program, as well as a cost of living adjustment for the human services workforce.
The Catholic Conference is encouraging lawmakers to accept Governor Hochul’s proposals regarding maternal health, including paid leave for prenatal care, increased access to doula care, and maternal health initiatives.
