State budget talks collapsed on Wednesday, with both the New York State Senate and Assembly pointing fingers at Governor Andrew Cuomo. Lawmakers are beginning a two week Easter-Passover break today, meaning no budget for some time.
A temporary budget extender bill will keep the state running.
The senate walked out after Governor Cuomo held a press briefing Wednesday evening, saying there was no final agreement on several sticking points including his “Raise the Age” of criminal responsibility bill. Senate and Assembly members told reporters they were close to an agreement on the budget and were caught off guard by the governor saying he would continue to negotiate.
Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie met with the governor in Albany this morning but left without saying anything to waiting reporters.
The budget was due on April 1st.
State Senator Rich Funke of Pittsford says the governor is “embracing gridlock.”