dailyloe.com – State Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie addressed budget negotiations with Governor Kathy Hochul on May 8, 2026. He noted a shift in tone regarding the state’s budget discussions, emphasizing that he believes they are close to an agreement.
Heastie stated, “We had a really good conversation. I think, like I said, my issue was never with her.” He expressed confidence in his relationship with the governor while highlighting concerns about the budget process.
The ongoing negotiations in Albany are tied to policy initiatives, including measures against “super speeders,” pension benefit revisions, and establishing a buffer zone around places of worship during protests. Heastie previously challenged Hochul’s claim that a deal was finalized.
“There’s no deal,” Heastie clarified on Thursday. He emphasized, “Budgets are supposed to be about money, not policy,” reflecting his perspective on the ongoing discussions.
Heastie identified outstanding issues as the budget continues to be delayed. He stated, “Probably conceptual agreement on, on some of the policy things,” while reiterating that a budget should focus on fiscal matters.
Heastie pointed out the need to finalize the Medicaid budget and education funding. He remarked, “We have to finalize, you know, education, what we’re doing in, and higher education.” He remains optimistic about reaching a resolution soon.
Heastie highlighted a specific issue impacting the city: reforming the state’s funding mechanisms for school districts. This change aims to allocate more resources for students in temporary housing.
“I think that’s going to happen in this budget,” Heastie noted, indicating that further details need to be resolved. His comments were made during a ceremonial groundbreaking for a new mini soccer pitch in the Bronx.
