NYS BLACK, PUERTO RICAN, HISPANIC, AND ASIAN LEGISLATIVE CAUCUS HIGHLIGHTS KEY WINS FROM ENACTED BUDGET
BPHA Caucus advances budget priorities and looks ahead toward their policy agenda
ALBANY, NY (May 21, 2025) – Today, the members of the Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic, and Asian Legislative Caucus, led by Chair Assemblymember Michaelle C. Solages highlighted their key wins from the 2025 People’s Budget in the FY 2026 Enacted Budget. After months of advocacy, the Caucus successfully pushed through key priorities from their agenda while blocking harmful proposals that would have hurt communities of color across New York State.
The People’s Budget, presented earlier in the year, serves as a blueprint for advancing equity and justice in communities of color. To that end, the Caucus prioritized further growth and opportunities in maternal health, higher education, climate action, and housing, among other key priorities in the enacted budget.
From direct investments in community-based organizations with the capacity to reach Black, Latino, and AAPI New Yorkers statewide, to the $9 million restoration and $3 million increase for Opportunity Programs such as EOP, SEEK, STEP, C-STEP, HEOP, and the Foster Youth Initiative, the enacted budget prioritizes both immediate support and long-term growth in education and community investments.
Additionally, the members supported the enhancement of the Empire Child Tax Credit and the BABY Benefit pregnancy allowance, which will invest in New York families by providing $1,800 to pregnant mothers receiving public benefits.
The spending plan also allocates $1 billion for the Sustainable Future Program, funding projects across the state to reduce emissions and invest in sustainable infrastructure, with a focus on disadvantaged communities. As the state continues to expand investments into climate action, the Caucus remains laser-focused on directing those funds to the communities of color on the frontlines of climate change.
One major concern for the Caucus has been that New York continues to remain in the midst of a housing crisis with rent skyrocketing and leaving a large economic burden on middle and low income families. The exodus of working class people from the state remains a concern, and it is a win for all New Yorkers to fund programs like the Housing Access Voucher Program, which supports individuals and families who are at risk of homelessness. Additionally, funding has been secured for the preservation of other important housing projects like the Mitchell-Lama Housing Program.
On criminal justice, the Caucus defended the critical discovery statutes and delivered on real reforms, such as mandating regular jail inspections from the State Commission on Corrections to end dangerous conditions, securing additional monies to investigate abusive guards, and authorizing the closure of up to three empty prisons. These hard-fought wins are critical components of accountability and valid first steps as the legislature continues to review additional policies needed.
Moreover, after significant advocacy from community groups and Caucus members, the state will establish a permanent Office of Gun Violence Prevention within the Division of Criminal Justice Services. This office will be responsible for coordinating prevention strategies, supporting community violence intervention programs, and collecting data to better understand the root causes of gun violence in neighborhoods most impacted by shootings. This is a long overdue policy victory that builds on years of local work to address gun violence as a public health issue.
“As Chair of the Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic and Asian Legislative Caucus, I am proud of our collective actions to make tangible gains for working families and marginalized communities," said Caucus Chair Assemblymember Michaelle C. Solages. “We continue to face deep issues relating to affordability and economic stability. But with this budget, we are showing that the legislature is focused on easing the financial burden of New Yorkers. These are not abstract wins. These are investments that will feed children, house vulnerable families, and protect the safety and dignity of our communities. There is still more work to be done, and we will remain committed to agency and action on behalf of Black, Latino, and AAPI New Yorkers.”
As the legislative session continues, the Caucus will remain on the frontlines advancing a policy agenda that demands justice for marginalized communities. There is still much work to be done to bring greater accountability to the correctional system, to ensure the family court system prioritizes the preservation of families, and to strengthen civil liberty protections for all New Yorkers. With an increasingly aggressive federal administration, now is the time for the state to assert its agency and act decisively to defend the people.
Senator Samra G. Brouk (D-Rochester) said, “As an Executive Board member of the Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic, and Asian Legislative Caucus, I take seriously our collective mission to protect and empower our underserved communities. With investments in safety, criminal justice, and housing in this budget, we are addressing the root problems in our neighborhoods while funding initiatives that protect at-risk and vulnerable residents and help them thrive.”
Senator Nathalia Fernandez (D-Bronx) said, “This budget is a testament to what’s possible when diverse leadership has a seat at the table. The Caucus brings lived experience, deep community ties, and an unwavering commitment to equity—all of which helped shape the outcome of these negotiations. These victories were earned through persistence, unity, and a clear vision for a better, fairer New York. Representation matters, and this moment makes that clear.”
Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas (D-Queens) said.“Today, we are celebrating some major budget victories, and I am especially proud that we have enacted a budget that fully funds school meals for all 2.7 million schoolchildren across New York State. I’m deeply proud of the hard work and tangible successes this powerful, diverse collective of legislators has achieved during this session. We are in the midst of a fierce battle against the dangerous and destructive policies of the Trump administration. As we confront life-threatening Medicaid cuts, the challenges of ICE raids, a volatile economy, and much more, it is more important than ever that we continue to advocate for policies that uplift and serve New Yorkers of color, and secure our human rights here in New York State. Today, we celebrate the work we’ve done — and we remain mindful of the work still ahead. Let’s keep going.”
Assemblymember Steven Raga (D-Queens) said, "I was elated to see continued investment in both Mitchell-Lamas and the AAPI Equity budget in this year's budget. $30 million has been specifically allocated to NYC Mitchell-Lamas for preservation, a key investment to help ensure we preserve affordable housing in the city. Mitchell-Lamas are a great way for our middle and low-income Black and Brown communities to achieve homeownership and live in affordable units. The sustained investment of $30 million for the AAPI Equity Budget was also a key success. My district is over 50% AAPI, so this funding is crucial to support our nonprofits and to combat hate. I’m so grateful to BPHA Chairwoman Michaelle Solages, the BPHA Caucus and all my colleagues for passing a budget that keeps affordability and equity for New Yorkers in mind.”
Assemblymember Gabriella Romero (D-Albany) said, “My colleagues in the Caucus and I fought tirelessly to preserve the heart of the 2020 discovery reforms in this year’s budget negotiations, and we won that fight,” said Assemblymember Gabriella A. Romero. “Access to evidence is a constitutional right. As a public defender, I know how high the stakes are, and I’m so proud that we were able to secure this win among other key victories for hardworking New Yorkers. “
Assemblymember Khaleel Anderson (D-Queens) said, “I'm proud to support New York’s FY 2025-2026 budget—a $254.3 billion plan that prioritizes everyday New Yorkers. Despite delays, we delivered a fiscally responsible budget that includes $400 inflation relief checks, tax cuts for all but the wealthy, free school meals, stronger support for students, a boosted child tax credit, and increased accountability in state correctional facilities.”
Assemblymember Nikki Lucas (D-Brooklyn) said "I am proud to say that this budget, more than any budget before, hits home for the residents of my district. I am grateful for the commitment that my colleagues in government and I put into this Make a Difference Budget. This budget makes a difference from Birth to Aging. This Make a Difference budget is for Families and all New Yorkers as we invest and prioritize Education, Public Safety, Environment, Transportation and overall Affordability. This Make a Difference budget puts money back in the pockets of families, gives their children healthy options in schools and opens opportunities like never before. Ensuring that our children, young adults and growing professionals can achieve their dreams in safe and climate protected environments."
Assemblymember Demond Meeks (D-Rochester) said, "This year’s state budget is a testament to our unwavering commitment to equity and justice for all New Yorkers. We've secured $50 million to empower Black-led community organizations, addressing systemic disparities in education, mental health, and economic opportunity. The $2 million investment in Double Up Food Bucks enhances food security in Rochester's underserved neighborhoods, while over $58 million in new education funding for the Rochester City School District expands career and technical education pathways for our youth. These initiatives are not just numbers—they represent our dedication to uplifting communities and building a more inclusive future. I am proud to serve the resilient and diverse communities of Rochester and New York. I will continue fighting for the resources and respect our constituents deserve.”
Assemblymember Grace Lee (D-Manhattan), Chair of the Asian Pacific American Task Force said, .“This budget underscores New York’s commitment to its diverse communities, securing a landmark $30M for AAPI social services organizations. Coupled with our $50 million investment in the Medicaid Quality Incentive Program, we are directly addressing the critical needs of underserved communities, ensuring they receive high-quality social services, and affordable healthcare.”
Senator Jeremy Cooney (D-Rochester) said, “I’m proud of the work my colleagues and I in the BPHA Caucus accomplished to create a more equitable New York in this year’s budget. With investments in public transit, and by embracing new technologies like high-speed rail, we’re breaking down barriers to transportation and making it easier than ever for New Yorkers to access healthcare, school, and job opportunities. By continuing to champion programs like Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, we’re instilling a love of learning in our children at a young age, leading to better outcomes and brighter futures for our youth. I want to thank all my colleagues for our continued partnership and commitment to meeting the needs of our communities statewide.”
Senator Lea Webb (D-Southern Tier) said,“This budget reflects our shared commitment to tackling the most pressing issues facing New Yorkers—making life more affordable for working families, strengthening our public services, and safeguarding the future of our communities. I’m proud of the thoughtful contributions made by my colleagues in the Senate, and grateful for the leadership of the Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins as we worked together to reach this agreement. While this process wasn’t easy, the results speak to our dedication to delivering meaningful progress for working families. I look forward to building on this momentum in the months ahead to ensure every New Yorker has the opportunity to thrive.”