"NY Gov. Hochul Announces $229 Billion Budget Deal Including Minimum Wage and Child Tax Credit Expansion"

New York Governor Kathy Hochul and state lawmakers have reached a $229 billion budget agreement that includes changes to the state's bail laws, an increase in the minimum wage, and urgent funding for New York City's transit system. The deal was reached after weeks of contentious negotiations that divided the governor and the Democrat-led State Legislature. The agreement will result in a hodgepodge of other Democratic priorities, from a ban on natural gas in new buildings to funding for free meals for school children. The budget still requires a formal vote by the full Legislature next week.