Gov. Hochul announces $254B budget to ban phone use in school, send out rebate checks
Briefly

New York State officials announced a tentative $254 billion budget that prohibits most students from using cell phones during school hours, introduces rebate checks for middle-class families, and creates a new crime for wearing masks while committing offenses. Governor Kathy Hochul, aiming to enhance public safety and affordability ahead of her reelection, reflected on the legislative process amidst political challenges, while officials noted that some of her proposed policies were modified during negotiations, emphasizing bipartisan focus on key educational and public safety issues.
New York's latest budget includes a $254 billion plan that limits student cell phone usage, provides rebates, and enhances public safety.
Gov. Hochul described the agreement as a refusal to engage in divisive politics, focusing instead on improving safety and affordability for New Yorkers.
The budget proposal garnered attention for its late delivery, attributed to the inclusion of new policies such as criminal charges for mask usage during crimes.
The leadership of the Legislature modified several of Hochul's proposals, focusing on key initiatives like student phone restrictions while withholding others.
Read at Gothamist
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