Issues arise in NY budget negotiations

Crime, high fuel prices and child care are among the big issues on the negotiating table as the Democrats who control New York state government try to hammer out a state budget deal.

This year’s budget negotiations are the first for Gov. Kathy Hochul, who took office over the summer and is trying to solidify her status as the frontrunner in the Democratic primary.

Like other state budget fights in recent years, this one has been an intraparty struggle between centrists and the left, with Republicans largely weighing in from the sidelines.

Hochul has asked legislative leaders to approve a $216 billion spending plan.

The budget is due by Friday, April 1, though that deadline can be extended.

The governor said Thursday she was having “productive conversations” with leaders of the state Senate and Assembly.

“I appreciate their collaboration and good faith approach to these negotiations,” Hochul said in a prepared release.

“We are getting closer to agreement, with consensus on major policy items.”