A Historic Day For Johnson City New York Students And Families

Today, May 9, 2025, New York State Governor Kathy Hochul signed the Fiscal Year 2026 budget, which was proposed in January of this year, into law.

Governor Hochul was at Johnson City Middle School this morning to sign the budget. She told the students that they were the first students in the history of the state to ever be there for the signing of the New York State budget.

So when you go home today, as part of the Mother's Day present, say, “Mom, I just heard from the Governor say, ‘We're gonna get $5,000 back in our pockets.’” Does that sound like a nice gift? Yeah. All right. All right. You can help take credit for it because you're here to witness this signing. - New York State Governor Kathy Hochul

Governor Hochul noted, “Your family is my fight. And I wanted to make sure I could fight for your moms and dads to have more money back in their pockets."

She spoke about the Empire Child Tax Credit, which, according to an announcement from New York State Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie, increases the maximum credit to $1,000 for children under four years old for 2025 to 2027, and $500 for children aged four to 16 for 2026 and 2027. 

Governor Hochul also spoke about the 'Bell to Bell' cell phone ban, emphasizing that it is so important for tghe health of New York State students. The ban goes into effect beginning with the 2025-21026 school year that begins in September.

Students will now experience a school day distraction-free, to learn, study, be more productive, and get things done in school without the distraction of a cell phone.

Read More: The New York State 'Bell To Bell' Cell Phone Ban Explained

According to New York State Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie, the 2020-2026 Fiscal Year budget will also include refund checks for New Yorkers. Single earners with income up to $75,000 will receive $200, and those making between $75,000 and $150,000 will receive $150. Persons who file jointly with income up to $150,000 will receive $400, and those making between $150,000 and $300,000 will receive $300.

This budget invests in our people and in our state. While the federal government proposes policies that are causing economic insecurity and worries about the future, we are fighting to support our small businesses, put money back into the pockets of hardworking families, and invest in programs that will allow our children to reach their full potential. The Assembly Majority will never stop fighting to build a New York where everyone can thrive” - New York State Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie

For more information, visit the New York Assembly website.

Check out New York State Governor Kathy Hochul's May 9th visit to Johnson City Middle School below.

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