New York State’s Disability Benefits Cap Increase Removed from $237 Billion Budget, Lawmakers Express Disappointment

Lawmakers in New York were left disappointed as increases to the state’s disability benefits cap were removed from the $237 billion budget during negotiations. Workers in New York who rely on short-term disability have been receiving a maximum benefit of $170 per week, a figure that has remained unchanged for 35 years.

The proposal to increase the benefit was initially included in Governor Kathy Hochul’s State of the State address and executive budget in January, with bipartisan support from the Legislature. Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages, who chairs the state Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic & Asian Legislative Caucus, expressed her disappointment at the decision, stating that not increasing the benefit was a mistake that would impact many individuals in need.

The paid medical leave program in New York helps individuals take time off work for necessary medical treatment, with approximately 30% of cases being pregnancy-related. Lawmakers have vowed to work towards changing the law and increasing the cap before the session ends in June, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing the needs of low-wage workers who are struggling to make ends meet.

The budget negotiations also saw disagreements over Medicaid and health spending, with lawmakers passing a health spending bill that included lower reimbursement rates for hospitals and nursing homes than what providers had requested. Senate Health Committee chair Gustavo Rivera expressed frustration with the cuts to various Medicaid programs, calling the situation “crappy.”

Despite the challenges faced during the budget process, lawmakers from both sides of the political aisle came together to champion $300 million in the budget to save SUNY Downstate from closing its hospital in Brooklyn. Governor Hochul emphasized the need for better health facilities in low-income communities like central Brooklyn, pledging to work with local officials and stakeholders to prevent the hospital from shutting down.

As the Legislature works to pass all 10 budget bills and send them to Governor Hochul’s desk, the focus remains on addressing the needs of New Yorkers and ensuring that essential services are protected and enhanced.