Catholic Charities Advocacy Day

Last week, New York Catholic Charities directors and staff gathered in Albany to meet with lawmakers and discuss legislative priorities. On Monday, February 24, the Archdiocese of New York and New York Catholic Conference hosted a well-attended reception, marking the first time a sitting governor attended this longstanding event. In addition to Governor Hochul, the reception was attended by several dozen legislators and staff. Earlier, Catholic Charities attendees attendees also received a briefing from Budget Director Blake Washington, where they had the opportunity to ask questions about various funding issues.

Governor Kathy Hochul speaking to Monsignor Kevin Sullivan, Executive Director of Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of New York

NYS Budget Negotiations

Budget negotiations in the legislature are currently underway. The New York State budget is due to be completed by April 1. Last year, it was significantly delayed, with the governor signing all budget legislation on April 20. As always, we will be keeping a close eye on the budget as we approach the deadline.

Education Updates

State lawmakers in Albany are in the final weeks of negotiating the state budget, with the deadline quickly approaching. As we focus on this process, we are seeking funding for Catholic schools to support the academic, health, safety, and security needs of our students and staff, as well as promoting STEM instruction and reimbursing schools for mandates imposed by the state. We need your voice to help secure these funds, so please let your state Senate and Assembly representatives know that this funding is important to you.

Human Services and Respect Life Updates

Another area of our focus is support for Governor Hochul's proposal to expand the Empire State Child Tax Credit. This proposal would triple the credit for children under 4 years old and double the average credit for all families. Now, more than ever, it is imperative that we address the affordability crisis and support parents as they raise their children. This initiative is a powerful way to support moms in need, assist working families, and help lift children out of poverty.
 

Stop Assisted Suicide in NY

Proponents of doctor-assisted suicide are continuing to try to legalize this deadly practice in New York. There is another BIG push this year and we need your help.

Lawmakers need to hear from their constituents if we hope to avoid yet another assault on the dignity of human life. Assisted suicide is dangerous for patients, caregivers, and vulnerable populations such as the elderly and people with disabilities. Suicide is not medical care. Please tell your State Senate and Assembly representatives that you oppose this dangerous and deadly practice. Contact your legislators now!

Capitol Compass 

In episode 43, Gillian chats with David Spicer, attorney for the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), and Auxiliary Bishop Edmund Whalen of the Archdiocese of New York. They discuss foreign-born religious workers visas and the impact foreign-born priests have on our communities.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts or on our website, https://www.nyscatholic.org/capitol-compass-podcast/