John -

Happy New Year!

Throughout our history, New York has led the nation in the fight to create a society where everyone can get ahead. As high costs have hit New Yorkers hard, I've made it my mission to make life more affordable for families across our state. Starting today, there are some major policies going into effect that are going to change New York for the better. 

✅ Insulin copays are now banned for any New Yorker who is on a state-regulated insurance plan. Insulin is essential for people living with diabetes, and we’re making sure they don’t have to worry about how they’ll afford this life-saving medication. 

✅ New York just became the first state in the nation to offer paid prenatal leave. Pregnant New Yorkers shouldn’t have to choose between getting medical care or a paycheck and with our paid prenatal leave program, they won’t have to. Hear from Daniela, a mom of two, about why paid time off for prenatal care is so important.

✅ Minimum wage workers in New York are getting a raise! With prices going up, we’re making sure workers across the state can meet the increased cost of living. The best part? It’s increasing again in 2026 and starting in 2027, we’re indexing the minimum wage to inflation. 

And that’s not all. From building more housing to cracking down on retail theft, 2024 was a landmark year for New York State. Watch:

We accomplished a lot in 2024, and we’re ready to do even more in 2025. From our proposed Inflation Refund checks and fighting smartphones in schools, to preparing for the incoming Trump administration, I’m going to continue to fight to make New York more safe and more affordable — in 2025 and in the years to come. 

Ever upward, 

Gov. Kathy Hochul

P.S. If you have a question about how we’re working to make life more affordable for New Yorkers (or any other topic!) you can submit it at ny.gov/askthegov – you may get an answer in a future email or video!

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