Governor Kathy Hochul’s comprehensive measures to combat organized retail theft have led to a significant decline in retail theft, with a 12% year-over-year decrease in New York City and a 5% reduction statewide in 2025. Backed by over $40 million in funding for dedicated Retail Theft Teams, tougher criminal penalties, and new laws targeting the…
Governor Kathy Hochul’s SUNY and CUNY Reconnect initiative offers free tuition, fees, books, and supplies for adult learners aged 25-55 pursuing associate degrees in high-demand fields at New York’s community colleges. Launched in the FY26 Enacted Budget, this program supports over 16,500 applicants in fields like nursing, cybersecurity, and advanced manufacturing, empowering New Yorkers without…
Aug. 25, 2025: Gov. Kathy Hochul and Western New York educators outlined plans to enforce New York’s new bell-to-bell smartphone restrictions across K-12 schools this fall, following statewide law aimed at distraction-free learning. The policy bans unsanctioned use of smartphones and other internet-enabled personal devices all day — including lunch and study hall — while…
On August 24, 2025, in Albany, Governor Kathy Hochul announced that swimming has resumed at all Long Island State Park ocean beaches as hazardous surf from Hurricane Erin subsides. Visitors should expect possible localized restrictions based on changing surf and rip-current conditions and are urged to follow posted advisories and lifeguard direction. State Parks lifeguards…
New York Governor Kathy Hochul has announced $52.6 million in broadband infrastructure awards through the state’s ConnectALL initiative to expand affordable, high-speed internet access to more than 24,000 households, businesses, and community institutions across 28 counties. The investment will build 234 miles of fiber and 46 wireless hubs, with a strong focus on connecting affordable…
Summary: Governor Kathy Hochul announced over $11 million in funding for five clean hydrogen research and development projects that aim to lower costs, advance storage and distribution technologies, and expand zero-emission transportation in New York. The initiatives include large-scale hydrogen storage studies, deployment of the first hydrogen-fueled generator at National Grid’s Northport Power Plant, development…