ALBANY, NY (WKBW) — New York Governor Kathy Hochul delivered the 2025 State of the State Address on Tuesday.
Governor Hochul unveiled a sweeping "affordability" agenda in her 2025 State of the State address, focusing on tax relief, child care, and education reforms aimed at easing the financial burden on New Yorkers.
The proposal, which she described as a plan to "fight for your family," includes a range of initiatives to support middle-class families, reduce costs, and create more opportunities for New Yorkers across the state.
Middle-Class Tax Cuts and Economic Relief
In her speech, Hochul called for a middle-class income tax cut that would benefit approximately 8.3 million taxpayers earning less than $323,000. The governor highlighted that this would provide the lowest tax rates in New York in 70 years, offering significant relief to working families struggling with high costs.
Hochul's tax cut proposal aims to stimulate the state's economy by putting money back into the pockets of residents. She also proposed rebate checks for New Yorkers, a move she says would provide immediate financial relief.
Childcare and Education
A cornerstone of Hochul's agenda is the expansion of childcare accessibility. She announced plans to partner with the legislature to move New York toward universal childcare, with $110 million in funding to build new childcare centers across the state. The governor emphasized that affordable childcare is essential for working families, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has exacerbated the childcare crisis.
In addition to childcare, Hochul called for free breakfast and lunch for all students, aiming to ensure that no child goes hungry while at school.
To make higher education more accessible, Hochul proposed free community college for New Yorkers aged 25 to 55 who pursue careers in high-demand fields such as manufacturing, healthcare, and education. This initiative is intended to address workforce shortages and provide opportunities for individuals seeking new career paths.
Republican Pushback
Republicans were quick to respond, criticizing the governor's proposals as insufficient or politically motivated. State Assemblyman Mike Lawler dismissed Hochul's rebate check proposal, suggesting that it was nothing more than a political gimmick designed to appease voters. He also took a jab at the governor’s repeated references to being a fan of the Buffalo Bills, claiming it didn’t translate into a genuine concern for upstate working families.
State Senate Minority Leader Rob Ortt also criticized the proposed rebate checks, questioning their effectiveness in truly addressing the financial struggles of New Yorkers. He described the proposal as a "political gimmick" that has been tried and failed in the past.
Additionally, State Assemblyman David DiPietro sent out a statement condemning the governor’s leadership, calling it “failed” and arguing that her proposals were nothing more than “empty rhetoric.”
A Bold Vision for New York’s Future
Despite the pushback, Hochul remains firm in her vision for the state. She reiterated that her proposals are not just about short-term relief, but about creating long-term solutions to New York's economic challenges.
“Your family is my fight,” Hochul said, emphasizing her commitment to reducing costs and creating opportunities for New Yorkers of all ages and backgrounds.
As the proposals move through the legislative process, it remains to be seen how lawmakers on both sides of the aisle will react to the ambitious agenda laid out by the governor.
Key Proposals:
- Middle-Class Income Tax Cut: Reducing tax rates to the lowest in 70 years for those earning less than $323,000.
- Universal Child Care: Aiming to provide affordable childcare and building new childcare centers with $110 million in funding.
- Free College Tuition: Offering free community college for New Yorkers aged 25 to 55 pursuing careers in high-demand fields.
- Free School Meals: Providing free breakfast and lunch for all students.
The governor's proposals mark a bold step toward addressing the financial pressures facing New Yorkers, but with opposition from Republican lawmakers, it remains to be seen how much of the agenda will come to fruition.
We decided to take a deeper look into some of the proposals and break down what it means for your wallet. You can watch the breakdown below.
You can find a full release from the governor's office on the 2025 State of the State here.
You can watch Hochul deliver the State of the State below.
