Particle.news

Download on the App Store

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.
Hero image