Kathy Hochul
The Clean Slate Law, taking effect in New York today, aims to help rehabilitated individuals by automatically sealing certain criminal records. Under the law, misdemeanors are sealed three years after sentencing or release, while felonies are sealed after eight years, provided individuals complete their sentences and avoid further legal trouble. However, records for severe offenses […]
Wildfires continued to burn across northern New Jersey and New York on Tuesday, fueled by dry conditions and gusty winds. The largest blaze, the Jennings Creek Wildfire, has scorched 3,500 acres along the New Jersey–New York border, with only 20% containment as of Monday night. Governor Kathy Hochul described it as the largest fire in […]
Governor Kathy Hochul delivered a public safety update in Rochester, focusing on efforts to combat crime in the city. While she highlighted significant progress in reducing crime in 2024—including a 40% drop in shootings and a 58% decrease in car thefts—recent violent incidents have raised concerns. Hochul referenced a series of tragedies, including a homicide […]
As part of New York’s state budget, $350 million has been allocated to aid moderate- and low-income families through the Empire State Child Tax Credit. Governor Kathy Hochul announced that one million New York families will receive checks of up to $330 per child by the end of August. The credit applies to families with […]
Renovations at Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport are set to commence, as announced by Governor Hochul on Friday. The $38.1 million project aims to modernize the main terminal, enhancing efficiency and traveler experience. This initiative follows a $230 million investment in Upstate New York airports, with Rochester receiving $18 million. Key updates include modern […]
The New York state Legislature has passed a bill aimed at protecting children from addictive social media feeds by allowing parents to block algorithm-suggested posts. Governor Kathy Hochul is expected to sign the bill into law. The legislation, which addresses concerns about social media’s impact on children’s mental health, would prevent platforms from showing suggested […]
Governor Kathy Hochul has unexpectedly paused New York’s congestion pricing plan, set to start June 30, citing economic concerns. The plan would have charged motorists up to $15 to enter Manhattan’s business district, aiming to reduce traffic and generate revenue for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA). Hochul expressed concerns about the financial impact on working […]
Starting April 1, 2024, New York State will offer all veterans and Gold Star Families free access to state parks and recreational sites through the expanded Lifetime Liberty Pass Program. Previously limited to veterans with at least a 40% service-connected disability, the program now extends to include all New York veterans and those who have […]
New York state has authorized pharmacies to provide birth control without a prescription, a move announced by Governor Kathy Hochul and Health Commissioner James McDonald. This landmark decision, effective from Tuesday, March 19, 2024, is designed to enhance accessibility to contraceptives and underscore the state’s commitment to women’s health rights. The approved measure permits pharmacists […]
Gov. Kathy Hochul is urging people to stay home and avoid any unnecessary travel. Hochul announced she’s declaring a state of emergency in anticipation of the developing Nor’easter. This state of emergency includes Ontario, Wayne, Yates, Seneca, and Cayuga counties, but does not include Monroe, Livingston, Orleans, Genesee, or Wyoming counties. Hochul says Western New York and the Finger […]