Albany County Legislature Leaders are grateful that state lawmakers came to an agreement on New York State’s $254 billion budget last night, ending a nearly month-long delay in its passage.

While the budget focuses on statewide issues, County leaders are encouraged that County priorities align with both the Governor and the State Legislature on everyday affordability for County residents in the form of the state’s tax cut for middle-class and low-income New Yorkers and New York’s first-ever Inflation Refund checks. The County and State also agree on the critical need to support children through the state’s increase to Child Tax Credit, expanded access to child care, and free breakfast and lunch for K-12 students.

Even with that, the headline for County lawmakers is that the budget still carried through the $400 million investment in the City of Albany, including $200 million for economic development that the Governor proposed during her State of the State Address in January.

Albany County Legislature Chairwoman Joanne Cunningham said: “With the uncertainty emanating from Washington, I am thrilled that the Governor and State Legislature agreed to follow through on investing in the City of Albany. So often we see broad and bold proposals like this $400 million pecked at until it is a shell of its original intent, but I am relieved that this made it through the process intact. I truly believe it will have an impact for generations to come.”

Albany County Legislature Deputy Chairwoman Wanda Willingham said: “As the Chair of the County’s Audit and Finance committee, I see how directly the budget process impacts all people. I appreciate the Governor and State Legislature’s efforts to support middle- and low-income New Yorkers and, especially, the many programs devoted to children. Beyond that, the State has also decided to invest in its capital city. After so many years passing over the historically underserved and marginalized neighborhoods in the shadow of the Capitol building itself, this new investment sends a clear message that New York State is devoted to Albany.”

Albany County Legislature Democratic Majority Leader Dennis Feeney said: “The 2025 State Budget puts Albany County residents first—delivering major investments in child care, public safety, education, and economic relief. I thank Governor Hochul and the State Legislature for recognizing the needs of our community and working hard to secure the resources our residents deserve. From helping families make ends meet to building safer, healthier neighborhoods—this is what good government looks like.”