End of Session Round-Up

The New York State legislative session has wrapped up in Albany with mixed results. Key wins were secured, especially through the budget, which addressed education, human services, housing, and more. However, the debate over physician-assisted suicide remains unresolved. Although the bill passed, advocates hope Governor Hochul will veto it, as the issue continues to spark intense debate. 

Education

For the 2024-25 school year, lawmakers allocated a total of $230,280,000 for Mandated Services Aid (MSA) and the Comprehensive Attendance Policy (CAP) to cover school expenses. Additionally, the legislature approved a $10 million increase proposed by the Governor for STEM funding, bringing the total to $85.5 million to help reimburse schools for a portion of STEM teachers' salaries. In support of school nutrition, a $136 million boost was provided, bringing the total allocation for School Nutrition Programs to $386 million. This funding ensures that all children in participating schools receive free meals, with at least 30% of the food sourced from New York farmers and growers.

Families and Housing

Key initiatives have been introduced to support families and housing. The Empire State Child Tax Credit increases to $1,000 for children under 4 and $330–500 for children aged 4-16, with reductions based on income. A one-time $1,800 Birth Allowance is available for public assistance recipients, and additional support for mothers includes funding for diapers and postpartum boxes. Mental health reforms expand involuntary commitment standards, while housing efforts include doubling the Low-Income Housing Credit, $50 million for supportive housing in NYC, and a new $50 million Housing Access Voucher Pilot for those at risk of homelessness.

Urge Governor Hochul to VETO Physician-Assisted Suicide Bill

Physician-assisted suicide legislation has passed in both the NY Senate and Assembly. Our only hope is Governor Hochul vetoing the bill.

Bill A136 will allow physicians to prescribe lethal doses of medication for the express purpose of ending a patient’s life. Governor Hochul needs to hear from her constituents if we hope to avoid yet another assault on human life here. Assisted suicide is dangerous for patients, caregivers, and vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and people with disabilities. Suicide is not medical care.

Contact Governor Hochul’s office today to voice your opposition on this dangerous and deadly practice!

Share this alert: https://bit.ly/veto-pas

Contact Your Local Media

Make your voice heard in your local newspaper. Share why you oppose physician-assisted suicide and why it’s crucial to protect human life in all circumstances.

Letters to the editor are a powerful way to amplify your voice in public discourse and influence decision-makers. They allow you to engage in critical debates, raise awareness, and shape public opinion on important issues like the physician-assisted suicide bill. Politicians often monitor letters to gauge public sentiment, and by voicing your opposition, you can create pressure for them to act in line with the concerns of their constituents. A well-written letter also shows support for your cause, providing a platform for personal stories that can resonate with a wide audience and inspire others to take action.

Visit our action center, where you can directly compose and send messages to your local media. 

How to Contact Local Media Through Our Action Center

1. Visit our Action Center.

2. Input your information in the right-hand section labeled "Find Politicians and Local Media." 

3. Scroll down to "My Elected Officials" and click the "View Officials" button.

4. Navigate to the bottom of the directory, where you will find a section labeled "Your Local Media."

5. Check the boxes for the media outlets you wish to contact and click the "Compose Message" button.

6. This will take you to a page where you can compose and send your message to the selected local media.

Capitol Compass Podcast

In episode 47, Gillian chats with Kristen Curran, director of government relations for the Conference. They discuss the implications of physician-assisted suicide passing in the legislature, arguments for a veto and what’s next. 

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