New York Budget Standoff Persists Over Discovery Law Reforms
Governor Hochul's push to amend discovery laws and expand involuntary commitment policies delays budget approval, with progressive opposition intensifying.
- Governor Kathy Hochul is holding up New York's state budget to secure changes to 2019 discovery laws, which critics say cause case dismissals on technical grounds.
- Progressive groups and legislative leaders oppose Hochul's proposals, arguing they undermine due process and fairness in criminal trials.
- Temporary budget extensions have been passed to maintain state operations, but the full budget is not expected to be finalized before mid-April.
- Hochul's proposed reforms, backed by New York City district attorneys, would narrow the scope of evidence prosecutors must share with defense attorneys.
- The budget impasse also involves disagreements over Hochul's plan to broaden involuntary commitment laws for mentally ill individuals, which faces strong resistance from advocacy groups.