New York State's $229 Billion Budget Passes Amid Partisan Criticism and Constitutional Concerns.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul declared a budget emergency and issued emergency waivers to bypass the three-day waiting period required by the state Constitution for lawmakers to review bills before they get passed. While lawmakers were still in Albany debating and voting on the overdue $229 billion state budget, Hochul attended a New York State Democratic Party fundraiser at Yankee Stadium, which watchdog groups criticized. The fundraiser was attended by donors with great interest in what was in the state budget, including the leadership of the powerful Transport Workers Union who represents city transit workers. Tickets fetched $5,000 for an individual ticket, $25,000 for four tickets, and $50,000 for eight tickets.