New York Families Action

06/13/2026

Early voting starts today. New Yorkers can vote during the early voting period, June 13–21, or on Primary Election Day, Tuesday, June 23. Get informed and go vote!

Too often, voters focus on November while overlooking one of the year’s most important elections: the primary. Yet in many districts across New York, the primary effectively determines who will […]

06/13/2026

We understand why one would want wi-fi availability in these facilities, but mandating it? New York State government should be grateful these places exist, not making it more difficult for them to keep their doors open.

The bill requires all shelters to provide high-speed broadband internet service.

06/13/2026

"The state released the enacted budget financial plan that placed the total price tag at over $277 billion – about $9 billion higher than the $268 billion total Gov. Kathy Hochul announced in mid-May."

With additional federal money, the newly released state budget financial plan has a $277 billion price tag.

06/11/2026

Trans activists are displeased that money for a so-called "gender-affirming care fund" was not included in the 2026-27 New York state budget. At New York Families, however, we are thankful. Our tax dollars should never be used to harm and disfigure people who are confused about their God-given gender identity.

The spending plan didn’t include any new funding for gender-affirming care access, and a recent announcement from the governor has only left advocates more confused.

06/10/2026

The 2026 legislative session is over, but New York’s affordability crisis is not. While Albany politicians spent the year talking about the high cost of living, the Legislature adjourned without delivering the meaningful fiscal reforms struggling families desperately need.

The 2026 legislative session is over, but New York’s affordability crisis is not. While Albany politicians spent the year talking about the high cost of living, the Legislature adjourned without […]

06/10/2026

“It is a laboratory-produced version that uses the active ingredient which is mitragynine and multiplies it in strength dramatically as much as a hundred times and it makes 7-OH basically an opioid like any other opioid,” said Steck. “Thirteen times as strong as morphine. It’s the equivalent to he**in. That’s why it’s called 'gas station he**in.'”

With 7-OH products typically sold in gas stations, convenience stores, and smoke shops, Republican Assemblyman Jake Blumencranz, who also pushed legislation on this issue, invited Steck to rally at the Capitol prior to the close of session in late May.

“Doctors that we’ve spoken to … had said that this was essentially becoming an entry point into the fourth wave of the opioid crisis,” said Blumencranz.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration calls it an “emerging public health threat.”

06/05/2026

"'This is not a normal place, and I think we can all agree on that,' state Senate Minority Leader Rob Ortt said just before 1 a.m. Friday. Amen to that."

"The state Senate wrapped up its legislative work for the year in the wee hours of Friday morning after a day of marathon debating and voting. Members are now headed home to their districts – and for many, to primary races. The Assembly is expected to finish later in the day. But with the upper chamber now in the wind, anything senators didn't wind up passing is now officially dead for the year."

A very late spending plan meant lawmakers’ post-budget work all needed to happen in the final week of the legislative year.

06/04/2026

"US Rep. Claudia Tenney (R-NY) blasted state politicians for the move, saying mothers are 'the foundation of families and society' and not a 'political construct.'"

"'At a time when New Yorkers are struggling with high taxes, rising costs, and public safety concerns, Albany Democrats are focused on redefining motherhood,' Tenney said. 'This is yet another example of out-of-touch politicians prioritizing progressive ideology over the issues that actually matter to hardworking New Yorkers.'"

A “putative father” in paternity proceedings would now be defined as “an alleged parent” under the bill.

06/02/2026

06/01/2026

As the legislative session draws to a close, activity at the state capitol reaches its annual peak. With the Legislature scheduled to adjourn on June 4, lawmakers, staff, and our legislative team at New York Families are entering one of the busiest and most demanding weeks of the year. Hundreds of bills remain under consideration, requiring legislators to devote long hours to debate, negotiation, and final votes. Early mornings and late nights—sometimes even overnight sessions—become the norm in this final stretch. Please remember the State Legislature and our team in your prayers this week.