Governor Kathy Hochul appointed conservation leader Kathy Moser to serve as Acting Commissioner of the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (NYS Parks), pending State Senate confirmation next year. Moser—formerly Chief Conservation & Policy Officer at the Open Space Institute and a past Deputy Commissioner at the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation—will oversee more than 250 parks, historic sites, trails, golf courses, and boat launches that drew a record 88 million visits in 2024. Aligned with Hochul’s focus on mental health, outdoor access, and environmental stewardship, Moser pledged to promote and protect New York’s parks system, a major statewide tourism and economic driver. A Duke University–trained botanist and forest productivity expert, Peace Corps alum, and fluent Spanish speaker, Moser brings decades of leadership at OSI, DEC, World Wildlife Fund, and The Nature Conservancy to guide NYS Parks into the future.
Governor Hochul Appoints Kathy Moser to Serve As Acting Commissioner of the New York State Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced her appointment of Kathy Moser to serve as Acting Commissioner of the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. Moser will lead the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation in an acting role as she awaits confirmation by the New York State Senate next year.
“Kathy Moser has the needed background, experience and commitment to public lands to lead New York’s Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation,” Governor Hochul said. “I want New Yorkers to get offline and get outside because we know nature has the ability to improve one’s mental health and overall wellbeing. I know Kathy understands this critical intersection of my policies to improve New Yorkers’ quality of life and environmental stewardship. This makes her the ideal person to lead this critical agency into the future.”
With a mission to provide safe and enjoyable recreational opportunities for all New York State residents and visitors and to serve as responsible stewards of the state’s natural, historic and cultural resources, the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation oversees more than 250 parks, historic sites, recreational trails, golf courses, boat launches and more. The Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation sites drew a record 88 million visits in 2024.
Acting Commissioner of the Office Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Kathy Moser said, “I appreciate the trust Governor Hochul is showing in me to lead this vital agency. I look forward to working with our dedicated team in promoting and protecting our beautiful state parks, campsites, and historic landmarks. Our vast system not only provides affordable relief for New Yorkers looking to take advantage of the outdoors or explore our historic treasures but is an economic driver by attracting tourists from across the country and world.”
Acting Commissioner Moser most recently has been Chief Conservation and Policy Officer at the Open Space Institute (OSI), an East Coast land trust based in New York. Acting Commissioner Moser directed OSI’s Parks, Stewardship and Government Relations programs. Before taking on the role in June 2020, she served as OSI’s Senior Vice President of Parks and Policy.
Prior to OSI, she was appointed Deputy Commissioner for Natural Resources at the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) in December 2011. She directed DEC’s portfolio in Lands and Forests, Fish and Wildlife, and Marine Resources.
Acting Commissioner Moser has also worked as Managing Director for Strategic Initiatives at World Wildlife Fund and held various senior positions at The Nature Conservancy in New York State (Acting State Director) and in their International Program (Regional Director for Central America) from 1992 to 2009.
She has also been a board member for the Mohawk Hudson Land Conservancy and New York League of Conservation Voters (Capital District).
Acting Commissioner Moser has her undergraduate degree in botany and master’s degree in forest productivity, both from Duke University. She served in the Peace Corps in Honduras and is fluent in Spanish.
Acting Commissioner Moser is married with three daughters, lives in Albany, and can be found early in the morning rowing and bird watching on the Hudson River.
New York City said it will participate in a proposed $7.4 billion settlement with Purdue Pharma and the Sackler family, steering about $48 million to the five boroughs to combat opioid harms. The deal—stemming from litigation launched in 2017—combines $6.5 billion from certain Sackler family members and an expected $900 million from Purdue’s bankruptcy estate pending court approval later this fall. City officials said the funds build on roughly $190 million already recovered and are projected to push total opioid-related proceeds to more than $550 million by 2041, supporting prevention, harm-reduction, and treatment efforts across DOHMH, NYC Health + Hospitals, and the Office of Chief Medical Examiner. The Adams administration has ramped opioid spending to about $50 million annually as overdose deaths showed improvement in late 2024. New Yorkers can call or text 988 for 24/7 support.
City of New York Takes Steps Toward Recovering Approximately $48 Million From Opioid Manufacturer in Ongoing Litigation to Bring Closure to Communities Affected by Opioid Crises
– New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Corporation Counsel Muriel Goode-Trufant today announced the city’s commitment to participate in a new proposed settlement with Purdue Pharma and the Sackler family that would bring approximately $48 million to the five boroughs and, more importantly, closure to the communities torn apart by the opioid crisis. The settlement is the result of litigation brought, beginning in 2017, by the city, numerous state attorneys general, and several thousand subdivisions across the country to address the harms caused by the opioid crises. The total settlement amount is expected to be approximately $7.4 billion, including $4.5 billion for state and local governments, of which approximately $48 million will go to the City of New York. The settlement would combine an agreement with certain members of the Sackler family to pay $6.5 billion and an anticipated contribution from the bankruptcy estate of Purdue Pharma, expected to be $900 million pending approval from the bankruptcy court on the proposed bankruptcy plan later this fall. Purdue Pharma and certain members of the Sackler family were at the heart of a scheme to misleadingly market prescription opioids as safe and effective for long-term chronic pain management, contributing greatly to the nationwide opioid crisis.
“The opioid crisis stole thousands of lives, tore apart countless communities, and devastated families across our city and the rest of the nation, and while nothing can replace all that we lost, we will never stop fighting until we bring justice to communities devastated by this crisis,” said Mayor Adams. “At the heart of the scheme to hook Americans on opioids were the Sackler family and their company, Purdue Pharma, and the potential for this $7.4 billion settlement will serve as an example of how New Yorkers can trust us to always hold those with power accountable when they break the law and harm our citizens. I thank Corporation Counsel Goode-Trufant and the Law Department for their role in this settlement and for helping to ensure we do what we can to help make New Yorkers whole again.”
“This settlement will represent a major milestone in the city’s longstanding legal effort to hold manufacturers and distributors of prescription opioids accountable for their role in the city’s deadly opioid epidemic,” said Corporation Counsel Muriel Goode-Trufant. “The opioid crisis resulted in a tremendous human and financial cost to the city. This $48 million settlement adds to the hundreds of millions of dollars we have already worked to recover from irresponsible drug companies. I commend all the dedicated individuals on the city’s legal team for their work in bringing about this outstanding result.”
Today’s announcement builds on the work the city has done to bring justice to the victims and families of the opioid epidemic. In January 2018, the City of New York sued manufacturers and distributors of prescription opioids to remedy the harms caused within the city by the misleading marketing and improper distribution of these drugs. New York Attorney General Letitia James filed a similar lawsuit in March 2019. Settlements reached by both the city and the state, as well as a court victory by Attorney General James, have provided the City of New York alone with nearly $190 million as of the end of Fiscal Year 2025, which, with this new settlement, is expected to grow to a total of more than $550 million by 2041. In April 2022, Mayor Adams and Attorney General James announced allocations for the first of hundreds of millions of dollars coming to New York City to combat the opioid crisis. In September 2024, Mayor Adams announced city funding will ramp up to an annual $50 million for opioid prevention and treatment.
Ongoing funds from opioid settlements have supported new and expanded activities at New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH), NYC Health + Hospitals, and the New York City Office of the Chief Medical Examiner that collectively aim to reduce opioid overdose deaths through harm reduction, preventive, and treatment strategies.
Funds from opioid settlements through DOHMH have supported wraparound services for syringe service programs, including on-site medical care, connections to health care and social services, and support for basic needs. Between July 2024 and April 2025, syringe service programs that operate Overdose Prevention Centers provided more than 38,000 harm reduction services to approximately 6,600 participants, reducing the risk of overdose and infectious disease and providing referrals to treatment and other health and social services. In 2023, the Adams administration also allocated $3 million to eight providers on Staten Island through a request for proposal to directly support the expansion of buprenorphine treatment, outreach and engagement, and care navigation services in the borough. Procurement to expand the number of hospitals participating in DOHMH’s emergency department-based nonfatal opioid overdose response program, called Relay, remains ongoing.
Since beginning to receive funding through opioid settlements, NYC Health + Hospitals has had over 9,800 patient engagements with expanded substance use services at Street Health Outreach and Wellness vans, nearly 80,000 encounters with patients in emergency departments with addiction services provided by the Emergency Department Leads program, and has successfully launched a cutting-edge addiction simulation training for emergency department prescribers. Additionally, NYC Health + Hospitals has provided comprehensive addiction consultations at over 23,000 inpatient admissions through the Consult for Addiction Treatment and Care in Hospitals program. Further, the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner’s Drug Intelligence and Intervention Group program has offered support services to more than 2,000 individuals following the death of a loved one from an overdose.
Today’s investment and all of the actions taken by Mayor Adams and the Adams administration to prevent overdose deaths also underscore the administration’s efforts to improve and extend the average lifespan of all New Yorkers through “HealthyNYC” to 83 years by 2030. HealthyNYC sets ambitious targets to address the greatest drivers of premature death, including chronic and diet-related diseases, screenable cancers, overdose, suicide, maternal mortality, violence, and COVID-19.
New Yorkers looking to access substance use services can call or text 988 for free, confidential support 24/7. Resources can also be found on the “NYC HealthMap” and on DOHMH’s website.
Today’s announcement builds on Mayor Adams’ “End the Culture of Anything Goes” campaign, which highlights the work the administration has done to date to change the culture and laws that prevented people with severe mental illness from getting the help they needed, while simultaneously making the investments necessary to support outreach, harm reduction, wraparound services, and housing — all in an effort to make lasting impacts in lives and communities. Mayor Adams is bringing the same energy and approach that proved to be successful in carving a new path to help people with severe mental illness to address other health crises, like drug addiction, playing out on city streets, and recently laid out plans to realize that vision by connecting those suffering with treatment.
Gov. Kathy Hochul is cutting a $25 million check—the biggest single-round payout yet—to help New York farmers keep muck out of rivers and lakes, tapping the state’s Environmental Protection Fund and, for the first time, cash from the voter-approved 2022 Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Bond Act. The money fuels 50 projects in 25 counties, from giant manure-storage upgrades like a 1.4-million-gallon system at Van Patten Farms to stream buffers and cover crops—moves Albany says will clamp down on runoff, protect drinking water and keep farms competitive. Officials brag the program has steered over $250 million to on-farm conservation over three decades, with more green bucks on the way for water infrastructure and climate resilience.
Governor Hochul Announces $25 Million Awarded to Help Farmers Protect Water Quality
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that $25 million has been awarded to help New York’s farmers support agricultural water quality conservation projects. This is a record level of funding awarded in any one round of the State’s Agricultural Nonpoint Source Pollution Abatement and Control Program (Ag Nonpoint), which is being provided through the Environmental Protection Fund (EPF) and, for the first time, the Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act.
“By tapping into our Bond Act funding, we are now able to expand our reach and support even more on-farm projects across the State through our Ag Nonpoint program,” Governor Hochul said. “Our farmers care deeply for the land they work, so it’s critical we provide them with the resources they need and deserve to safeguard our waterways while protecting our communities and our natural resources from climate change.”
The announcement was made today at a special event held by State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball and Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton at Van Patten Farms in Preble, Cortland County. The Cortland County Soil and Water Conservation District will help the farm construct a 1.4-million-gallon nutrient storage and transfer system, which will advance nutrient recycling practices for crop production and water quality in the Tioughnioga River Watershed. The Van Patten Farm, through the District, is receiving funding from the Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act to support implementation of the project. In total, 50 projects were funded in 25 counties across the State through Round 30 of the Ag Nonpoint Program.
New York State Agriculture and Markets Commissioner Richard A. Ball said, “Our Ag Nonpoint program has long been a well-known and robust resource to our farmers for three decades, helping our farmers to implement best practices that will conserve water and protect our waterways. Now, with an infusion of funding from the Bond Act, we are able to grow the program, investing in projects that will not only ensure the health of our environment but will also help ensure farms can remain competitive, profitable, and sustainable.”
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton said, “Thanks to Governor Hochul’s leadership, this latest record investment to protect water quality through the Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act and the Environmental Protection Fund will help make it more affordable for farmers to implement effective environmental strategies. Today’s $25 million strengthens DEC’s ongoing partnerships with State Agriculture, local Soil and Water Conservation Districts, and farmers to help prevent water pollution while also helping our agriculture economy thrive.”
The Ag Nonpoint Program provides funding to projects that focus on either environmental planning or the implementation of best management practice systems to protect New York’s watersheds. Projects include conservation measures, such as nutrient management through manure storage, vegetative buffers along streams, and conservation cover crops.
Cortland County Soil and Water Conservation District Manager Amanda Barber said, “Conservation and water quality improvement practices are important for farm viability and environmental health. We are fortunate to have the support of the state and the Ag Nonpoint Source grant program to help fund conservation work on our local farms.”
Van Patten Farms, LLC. Co-Owner Steve Van Patten said, “Investments in environmental stewardship are important for the future of our farm. The Ag Nonpoint Source grant will help us improve our manure management and better utilize manure nutrients on the farm. We feel fortunate to have Soil and Water Conservation Districts supporting our efforts to improve our farm while protecting water quality for our community.”
A regional breakdown of funding is listed below. The complete list of awarded projects can be found here.
Western New York – $2,686,922
$509,572 was awarded to the Allegany County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with four farms in the Genesee River Watershed (Bond Act).
$910,075 was awarded to the Cattaraugus County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with one farm in the Cattaraugus Creek Watershed (EPF).
$1,267,275 was awarded to the Chautauqua County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with two farms in the Conewango Creek Watershed (EPF).
Finger Lakes – $7,862,133
$1,936,624 was awarded to the Ontario County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with six farms in the Upper Genesee Watershed (Bond Act and EPF).
$533,330 was awarded to the Seneca County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with four farms in the Cayuga Lake Watershed (EPF).
$184,745 was awarded to the Wayne County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with two farms in the Oak Orchard-Twelvemile Watershed and Lake Ontario Watershed (Bond Act).
$4,582,434 was awarded to the Wyoming County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with one farm in the Genesee River Watershed (Bond Act and EPF), Niagara River Watershed (Bond Act), and Buffalo-Eighteenmile Watershed (Bond Act and EPF).
$625,000 was awarded to the Yates County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with 13 farms in the Keuka Lake Watershed (EPF).
Southern Tier – $4,592,411
$300,375 was awarded to the Chenango County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with one farm in the Upper Susquehanna River Watershed (Bond Act).
$1,534,136 was awarded to the Delaware County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with three farms in the Delaware River Watershed (EPF) and Upper Susquehanna River Watershed (Bond Act).
$288,460 was awarded to the Tioga County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with five farms in the Owego-Wappasening Watershed (EPF) and Upper Susquehanna Watershed (Bond Act).
$2,469,440 was awarded to Tompkins County Soil & Water Conservation District to work with two farms in the Owasco Lake Watershed (Bond Act and EPF).
Central New York – $5,527,147
$1,820,100 was awarded to the Cortland County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with three farms in the Otisco Lake Watershed (Bond Act), Tioughnioga River Watershed (Bond Act), and Lower East Branch Tioughnioga River Watershed (EPF).
$797,391 was awarded to the Cayuga County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with 12 farms in the Cayuga Lake Watershed (EPF).
$1,010,440 was awarded to the Madison County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with 19 farms in the Chenango River Watershed (EPF) and Tioughnioga River Watershed (EPF).
$1,899,216 was awarded to the Onondaga County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with six farms in the Onondaga Lake Watershed (EPF), Chenango River Watershed (Bond Act), Skaneateles Lake Watershed (Bond Act), and Fabius Brook Watershed (Bond Act).
Mohawk Valley – $1,504,141
$934,148 was awarded to the Herkimer County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with one farm in the Mohawk River Watershed (EPF).
$569,993 was awarded to the Montgomery County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with one farm in the Mohawk River Watershed (EPF).
North Country – $2,225,045
$594,359 was awarded to the Clinton County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with one farm in the Lake Champlain Watershed (EPF).
$421,347 was awarded to the Essex County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with two farms in the Lake Champlain Watershed (Bond Act).
$1,077,740 was awarded to the Jefferson County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with three farms in the Black River Watershed (EPF).
$131,599 was awarded to the Lewis County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with one farm in the Black River Watershed (Bond Act).
Capital Region – $264,056
$75,014 was awarded to the Columbia County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with one farm in the Hudson River Watershed (EPF).
$189,042 was awarded to the Schenectady County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with one farm in the Mohawk River Watershed (EPF).
Long Island – $183,694
$183,694 was awarded to the Suffolk County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with four farms in the Long Island Sound Watershed (EPF).
State Senator Michelle Hinchey said, “New York farmers are among the most dedicated stewards of our natural resources, working every day to protect our lands and waters. These grants will help them expand that work while supporting their ability to grow fresh, local food that communities across our state depend on. I thank Governor Hochul for prioritizing these investments for our environment and for the future of New York agriculture.”
State Senator Pete Harckham said, “This historic investment in the State’s Agricultural Nonpoint Source Pollution Abatement and Control Program will help farmers and conservation districts protect the health of our fragile waterways. Thank you to Governor Hochul and the Department of Agriculture and Markets for this crucial investment in the health of our waterways.”
State Senator Lea Webb said, “As an advocate for sustainable agriculture, I’m proud to see that our state has secured a record level of funding through the Environmental Protection Fund to support agricultural water quality conservation projects. This investment in nonpoint source programming is not just a win for our farmers but for the health of our environment and future generations. By working together, we’re creating a blueprint for responsible farming that prioritizes both productivity and environmental stewardship.”
Assemblymember Donna Lupardo said, “Our Soil and Water Conservation Districts work diligently to protect NY’s natural resources. For 30 years, our Ag Nonpoint Source Program has provided them with the resources needed to develop effective on-farm solutions for NY’s farmers. This latest round of funding from the Environmental Protection Fund and now the Bond Act, will send a record amount of support for agricultural water quality conservation projects across the state. Thank you to everyone involved for their shared commitment to environmental stewardship at this important time.”
Assemblymember Deborah J. Glick said, “New York’s agriculture sector is a critically important segment of our economy. Preserving water quality while expanding operations is good environmental practice as well as good business. Our Soil and Water Conservation Districts are experts and vital partners with our farmers to ensure that farms can thrive without negative impacts to our waterways. I want to thank Governor Hochul for her ongoing support of common-sense use of our environmental funds.”
New York State Soil and Water Conservation Committee Chairman Matt Brower said, “The funds awarded for Round 30 will make it possible for farms to install needed practices to protect water quality across the State. These farms, like other farms over the past 30 years, have demonstrated a commitment to installing best management practices to protect the environment. Thanks to the Soil and Water Conservation Districts for their efforts preparing the various proposals and for assisting the farmers with the planning, design, and installation of the practices.”
New York State Farm Bureau President David Fisher said, “Farmers are stewards of the land. They care deeply about the quality of water they use for their crops and animals, and they are active partners in practicing sustainability on their farms. This record-level funding for the Ag Nonpoint program will help protect our most valuable natural resource by allowing farmers to continue instituting best practices and to adapt new technologies as they become available.”
Through this latest round of the program, Round 30, a total of $25 million was made available to the State’s County and Soil and Water Conservation Districts, who applied on behalf of New York farmers: $14 million is from the Environmental Protection Fund and $11 million is from the Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act of 2022. The Ag Nonpoint Program is marking its 30th anniversary, and so far, through 29 rounds of funding, over $250 million has been awarded to on-farm projects.
The New York Department of Agriculture and Markets, in coordination with the New York State Soil and Water Conservation Committee, administers the Agricultural Nonpoint Source Abatement and Control Program through its Land and Water Division, which works to protect New York’s land and water resources through farmland protection, farmland conservation, and proactive environmental stewardship.
The Agricultural Nonpoint Source Abatement and Control Program functions as part of the Agricultural Environmental Management (AEM) framework, a broader effort that helps farmers achieve higher levels of environmental stewardship and more efficient, cost-effective farming systems. County Soil and Water Conservation Districts use the AEM framework to assist interested farmers through planning and implementation to make science-based and cost-effective decisions. As a result, farmers can meet business goals while conserving the State’s natural resources.
Governor Hochul’s Commitment to Soil and Water Conservation Districts
Under the Governor’s leadership, the Fiscal Year 2025 Budget provides $81.8 million through the Environmental Protection Fund, up $4 million from last year, for agricultural programs and initiatives, such as the Ag Nonpoint Program and the Climate Resilient Farming grant program, that are helping farms to implement environmentally sustainable practices and combat climate change.
This includes capital investments Soil and Water Conservation Districts oversee, such as supporting dairy farmers to implement projects that enhance manure management systems that sequester carbon and conserve manure nutrients applied to fields and soil to benefit water quality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. It also includes recent funding in the Eastern Finger Lakes Watershed that galvanizes implementation of the plans and programs to address on-the-ground actions necessary to abate nutrient pollution and harmful algal blooms (HABs), prevent runoff, protect drinking water, and support local farmers.
In addition, the voter-approved $4.2 billion Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act of 2022 is advancing historic levels of funding to update aging water infrastructure and protect water quality, strengthen communities’ ability to withstand severe storms and flooding, reduce air pollution and lower climate-altering emissions, restore habitats, and preserve outdoor spaces and local farms.
New York State’s Climate Agenda
New York State’s climate agenda calls for an affordable and just transition to a clean energy economy that creates family-sustaining jobs, promotes economic growth through green investments, and directs a minimum of 35 percent of the benefits to disadvantaged communities. New York is advancing a suite of efforts to achieve an emissions-free economy by 2050, including in the energy, buildings, transportation and waste sectors.
New York Attorney General Letitia James, joined by 19 state attorneys general, said mifepristone has been safely and effectively used for more than 25 years and criticized an FDA review ordered by HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and FDA Commissioner Martin Makary as unsupported by science. The coalition argued medical decisions should rest on evidence rather than politics and vowed to take legal action to preserve access if the drug is threatened. Ms. James also pointed to recent litigation and policy moves by her office aimed at safeguarding abortion access and emergency reproductive care.
Attorney General James and 19 Attorneys General Defend Mifepristone’s Safety
Attorneys General Emphasize that Despite FDA’s Unnecessary and Baseless Comments, Mifepristone Remains Safe and Available
– New York Attorney General Letitia James today co-led a coalition of 19 attorneys general in releasing the following statement after Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Commissioner Martin Makary launched an FDA review of the abortion medication mifepristone:
“For more than 25 years, mifepristone has been used safely and effectively in the United States and globally. It is currently the most common method for early-term abortion care in the United States and is the standard of care for managing early miscarriage. The decision to reexamine access to this medication was made in response to a scientifically baseless letter and ignores decades of research that prove mifepristone is safe and effective. Medical decisions should be left between patients, their families, and their providers – and they should be guided by science, not political agendas.
“As state attorneys general, we have a responsibility to enforce state laws and protect our residents, including their access to reproductive care. If access to mifepristone is challenged, we will take action to protect it.”
Joining Attorney General James in releasing this statement are the attorneys general of Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, and the District of Columbia.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul is alerting residents to scams falsely claiming you must share bank or payment details to receive the state’s inflation refund check. The New York State Tax Department and IRS will never call, text, email, direct message, or mail asking for personal tax information. Eligible New Yorkers—those who filed a return, meet income thresholds, and weren’t claimed as dependents—will automatically receive checks, with more than 8.2 million households getting payments through October and November. If you get a suspicious message, block the sender, delete it, and report it to the Tax Department or IRS. Avoid clicking links, sharing personal data, or meeting anyone for “payment.” For eligibility details and consumer protection resources, visit the New York State Tax Department and Division of Consumer Protection websites. Stay vigilant to avoid tax scams and protect your identity.
Governor Hochul Warns Against Scams Targeting New York’s Inflation Refund Initiative
Scammers are Sending Text Messages, Emails and Direct Mail Falsely Claiming That New Yorkers Must Submit Payment Information To Receive an Inflation Refund Check
Eligible New Yorkers Will Receive Their Inflation Refund Check With No Need To Apply, Sign Up or Provide Personal Information
Governor Kathy Hochul today warned New Yorkers of scammers who are sending text messages, voice messages, emails and direct mail to taxpayers in an attempt to spread false information about New York State’s inflation refund checks. These messages falsely claim that New Yorkers must submit accurate payment information in order to receive an inflation refund check, supposedly so revenue agencies can deposit money into a taxpayer’s bank account. The New York State Tax Department and the IRS will not call or text New Yorkers with requests for any personal information. View an example of this text message, so you know what to look out for.
“New Yorkers do not have to do anything to receive an inflation refund check outside of meeting the eligibility requirements,” Governor Hochul said. “With scams targeting the state’s inflation refund initiative, let me be clear: The Tax Department and the IRS do not call or text individuals for personal information. My administration urges New Yorkers to remain vigilant and report these scams to the Tax Department to protect yourself from being a victim.”
If you receive one of these messages appearing to be from the Tax Department, block the sender, delete the message, and reportthis scam to the Tax Department or IRS. The Tax Department does not use text messages, email, direct mail or social media to request your personal tax information.
By staying alert and knowing what to watch out for, you can reduce your risk of becoming a target of common tax scams.
For more taxpayer scam information, visit the Division of Consumer Protection’s Taxpayer Scam webpage. For additional identity theft prevention and mitigation resources, call the Consumer Helpline at 800-697-1220 or visit the Division’s Identity Theft Prevention and Mitigation Program webpage.
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said state-chartered banks can count loans and investments in Community Development Financial Institutions toward Community Reinvestment Act obligations even if a CDFI’s 2024 federal certification has temporarily lapsed, a move aimed at keeping capital flowing to underserved borrowers. The Department of Financial Services guidance follows a meeting with CDFIs, minority depository institutions and large lenders, and is intended to minimize disruption from federal uncertainty. The state points to a broader push on access to credit, citing nearly $18 million in CDFI grants over five years and State Small Business Credit Initiative programs that have deployed $35.5 million through the Small Business Revolving Loan Fund 2.0 and $18.2 million via a Contractor Financing Program. With more than 80 certified CDFIs and 46 MDIs operating in New York, officials say the step will help sustain affordable housing finance, small-business lending and other community development activity.
New York. Governor Hochul Affirms Commitment to Advancing Affordability and Access to Financial Services in Underserved Communities
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced new guidance from the New York State Department of Financial Services (DFS) allowing state-chartered banks to receive Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) credit for lending to or investing in Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) — even if their 2024 federal certification has lapsed. This action will help safeguard critical investments in CDFIs which can be used to expand access to affordable housing, small business financing, and other vital services within minority communities.
“Every New Yorker — no matter where they live — deserves access to affordable and reliable financial services and the resources they need to build a brighter future,” Governor Hochul said. “While Republicans in Washington work to undermine Community Development Financial Institutions and strip away critical investments in working families, New York is charting its own path. The Department of Financial Services’ new guidance strengthens our support for CDFIs, empowering them to fuel small business growth, open doors to homeownership, and expand opportunity in neighborhoods that have too often been overlooked. By building on our strong record of investments and providing certainty in uncertain times, we are advancing affordability and prosperity for every New Yorker.”
New York State Department of Financial Services Superintendent Adrienne A. Harrissaid, “CDFIs are on the frontline of helping underrepresented New Yorkers access capital and credit, driving economic growth, boosting employment, and building wealth. The Department is proud to continue to support CDFIs as part of its mission to build a more equitable financial system for all New Yorkers.”
Today’s action follows a recent convening of CDFIs, Minority Depository Institutions (MDIs), and senior representatives from New York’s largest banks to discuss measures to strengthen these institutions and ensure continued access to capital for underserved communities. This guidance makes clear that CDFIs that experience federal CDFI Fund certification lapses unrelated to their programs or mission have an avenue for continued funding, helping to ensure that federal uncertainty does not destabilize community-based institutions. By providing certainty for banks and CDFIs, New York is ensuring that mission-driven lenders can continue to attract and deliver critical services in neighborhoods often overlooked by traditional financial institutions.
In addition to today’s DFS action, Empire State Development has built a strong track record of supporting CDFIs across New York, awarding nearly $18 million in grants to CDFIs over the last five years. ESD also leveraged $500 million in federal funding allocated through the State Small Business Credit Initiative to establish ten new capital access and equity programs for small businesses, including several that distribute capital in partnership with CDFIs. Already, ESD has allocated $35.5 million to 16 CDFIs through the Small Business Revolving Loan Fund 2.0 and another $18.2 million to 7 CDFI partners through the Contractor Financing Program. Collectively, these efforts have helped thousands of New Yorkers — particularly unbanked and underbanked individuals and small businesses and microbusinesses — open bank accounts, receive technical assistance, and access affordable credit to build wealth and stability in their communities.
New York is home to more than 80 certified CDFIs and 46 MDIs, which collectively provide billions of dollars in mortgages, small business loans, and community development projects that drive economic growth and financial inclusion.
Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Community Development Financial Institutions are vital partners in ensuring that every New Yorker, no matter their zip code, has access to affordable credit and financial services. Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, Empire State Development has invested tens of millions of dollars to strengthen CDFIs and empower them to deliver capital, training, and opportunity in communities too often overlooked by traditional banking. Today’s action reinforces that commitment and ensures these mission-driven lenders can continue to help small businesses grow, families build wealth, and neighborhoods thrive.”
Senator Charles Schumer said, “From Buffalo to Albany, the CDFI Fund is used to build new homes, reduce housing costs, improve healthcare, start new businesses, and rebuild Main Streets across New York. This new guidance will help expand access to financial services for all New Yorkers, from new families trying to buy their first home to entrepreneurs starting and expanding small businesses. With programs like this under attack by Trump’s budget cuts, it is more important than ever to protect existing investments and keep support flowing to New York’s Main Streets and the middle class. I am grateful for Governor Hochul’s partnership in ensuring financial services are available to all New Yorkers.”
State Senator James Sanders Jr. said, “I applaud Governor Kathy Hochul for her initiative in supporting Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs). We need to ensure New York CDFIs are healthy and effective since they play a critical role in improving access to underserved communities.”
Assemblymember Al Stirpe said, “CDFIs are critical gateways for underserved communities to grow, bridging the gap between economic barriers and opportunities that would otherwise be out of reach under traditional banks. For the 80 and rising CDFIs across New York State, every investment into a CDFI translates into an investment for stimulating small businesses, promoting homeownership, and encouraging all communities to thrive in the economic mainstream.”
Assemblymember Clyde Vanel said, “I commend Governor Hochul and the Department of Financial Services for their work to ensure that vital investments continue to flow into our communities. Community Development Financial Institutions are essential for small businesses, first-time homebuyers, and families who lack access to traditional banking services. This guidance will provide local economies the stability and certainty they need to grow and it will expand opportunity for all New Yorkers.”
Assemblymember Marianne Buttenschon said, “This action by DFS ensures that our mission-driven lenders can continue serving the families and small businesses that traditional banks too often overlook. In the Mohawk Valley, CDFIs are vital partners for first-time homebuyers, small contractors, and local entrepreneurs. Without this measure, our CDFIs would lose access to critical funding not due to any fault of their own, but to federal uncertainty. I appreciate the efforts of the agency as well as the Governor to provide stability and fairness, and to ensure the continuance of these important institutions.”
This announcement builds on Governor Hochul’s ongoing commitment to affordability and equity, ensuring that New York continues to lead the way in supporting mission-driven financial institutions and the communities throughout New York who rely on them.
On September 26, 2025, in New York City, Mayor Eric Adams issued a statement following his meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu after the prime minister’s United Nations General Assembly address. Emphasizing NYC’s tradition of free speech and welcoming all viewpoints, Adams thanked Netanyahu for “defending the western world and our way of life” and warned that calls for the death of Jews are also attacks on Americans. Framing his remarks around his oath to protect New Yorkers, Adams reaffirmed steadfast support for the State of Israel, its right to defend itself, eliminate Hamas, and secure the release of all hostages. The mayor underscored that, even as some turn away from Israel, the leader of the largest Jewish community outside Israel must stand firm in solidarity.
Mayor Adams’ Statement After Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Address at the United Nations General Assembly
– New York City Mayor Eric Adams today issued the following statement after meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu following the prime minister’s address at the United Nations General Assembly this morning:
“For decades, world leaders have convened in New York City for the United Nations General Assembly to pursue diplomacy and peace. While we may not always agree with these leaders, New York City has always been a place where all are welcome, regardless of their beliefs. Allowing everyone to speak freely is who we are as a city and as a nation — and while many may try to reject that notion today, I will continue to embrace it.
“That is why, of all the world leaders we have greeted this week, I was particularly proud to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu after his address to the United Nations, to thank him for defending the western world and our way of life.
“As your mayor, my oath is to protect New Yorkers against all enemies, both foreign and domestic, and Prime Minister Netanyahu laid out a clear case that those who call for the death of Jews across the globe are also calling for the death of Americans.
“At a time when much of the world is turning its back on the Jewish State of Israel, the mayor of the largest Jewish community outside of Israel must remain steadfast in our support for Israel, its right to defend itself, eliminate Hamas, and bring every single one of their hostages home.”
Summary: New York City Mayor Eric Adams on Sept. 25, 2025, extended the jail system’s state of emergency for another five days, citing persistent staffing shortfalls and pressure to comply with federal oversight mandates. The order, tied to the Nunez Action Plan, aims to stabilize operations at Rikers Island and other facilities where staff attrition has strained safety, sanitation, and access to basic services. The move continues a series of emergency measures first imposed in 2021 as the city works to address chronic dysfunction inside its correctional system.
Emergency Executive Order 863
WHEREAS, on September 2, 2021, the federal monitor in the Nunez use-of-force class action stated that steps must be taken immediately to address the conditions in the New York City jails; and
WHEREAS, on June 14, 2022, the federal court in Nunez approved the Nunez Action Plan, which “represents a way to move forward with concrete measures now to address the ongoing crisis at Rikers Island”; and
WHEREAS, although there has been improvement in excessive staff absenteeism, extraordinarily high rates of attrition due to staff retirements and other departures continue to seriously affect the Department of Correction’s (DOC’s) staffing levels and create a serious risk to DOC’s ability to carry out the safety and security measures required for the maintenance of sanitary conditions; and access to basic services, including showers, meals, visitation, religious services, commissary, and recreation; and
WHEREAS, this Order is given to prioritize compliance with the Nunez Action Plan and to address the effects of DOC’s staffing levels, the conditions at DOC facilities, and health operations; and
WHEREAS, additional reasons for requiring the measures continued in this Order are set forth in Emergency Executive Order No. 140 of 2022, Emergency Executive Order No. 579 of 2024, and Emergency Executive Order 623 of 2024; and
WHEREAS, the state of emergency existing within DOC facilities, first declared in Emergency Executive Order No. 241, dated September 15, 2021, and extended by subsequent orders, remains in effect;
NOW, THEREFORE, pursuant to the powers vested in me by the laws of the State of New York and the City of New York, including but not limited to the New York Executive Law, the New York City Charter and the Administrative Code of the City of New York, and the common law authority to protect the public in the event of an emergency:
Section 1. I hereby direct that section 2 of Emergency Executive Order No. 861, dated September 20, 2025, is extended for five (5) days.
§ 2. This Emergency Executive Order shall take effect immediately and shall remain in effect for five (5) days unless it is terminated or modified at an earlier date.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams on Sept. 25, 2025, signed Emergency Executive Order 864, extending Section 2 of EEO 862 for five days to manage an ongoing surge of asylum seekers and the resulting pressure on the Department of Homeless Services shelter system. The move continues the city’s state of emergency first declared in EEO 224 on Oct. 7, 2022, and cites authority under New York State law, the City Charter and the Administrative Code. The order takes effect immediately and can be modified or ended earlier, preserving operational flexibility as arrivals from the Southern border strain housing and services. Keywords: New York City, Eric Adams, Emergency Executive Order 864, EEO 862, EEO 224, asylum seekers, migrant crisis, DHS shelter system, September 25, 2025.
Emergency Executive Order 864
WHEREAS, over the past several months, thousands of asylum seekers have been arriving in New York City, from the Southern border, without having any immediate plans for shelter; and
WHEREAS, the City now faces an unprecedented humanitarian crisis that requires it to take extraordinary measures to meet the immediate needs of the asylum seekers while continuing to serve the tens of thousands of people who are currently using the DHS Shelter System; and
WHEREAS, additional reasons for requiring the measures continued in this Order are set forth in Emergency Executive Order No. 224, dated October 7, 2022; and
WHEREAS, the state of emergency based on the arrival of thousands of individuals and families seeking asylum, first declared in Emergency Executive Order No. 224, dated October 7, 2022, and extended by subsequent orders, remains in effect;
NOW, THEREFORE, pursuant to the powers vested in me by the laws of the State of New York and the City of New York, including but not limited to the New York Executive Law, the New York City Charter and the Administrative Code of the City of New York, and the common law authority to protect the public in the event of an emergency:
Section 1. I hereby order that section 2 of Emergency Executive Order No. 862, dated September 20, 2025, is extended for five (5) days.
§ 2. This Emergency Executive Order shall take effect immediately and shall remain in effect for five (5) days unless it is terminated or modified at an earlier date.
– New York Attorney General Letitia James’ Office of Special Investigation (OSI) today released its report on the death of Gary Worthy, who died on November 19, 2024 following an encounter with members of the New York City Police Department (NYPD) in Queens. After a thorough investigation, which included review of footage from body-worn cameras and security cameras, interviews with involved officers and witnesses, and comprehensive legal analysis, OSI concluded that a prosecutor would not be able to disprove beyond a reasonable doubt at trial that the officer’s actions were justified under New York law.
Shortly before 6:30 p.m. on November 19, NYPD officers responded to multiple 911 calls reporting a robbery with a gun at a smoke shop on Guy R. Brewer Boulevard in Queens. When officers arrived near the scene at 160th Street and Jamaica Avenue, one of the 911 callers approached the officers’ police car, pointed toward Mr. Worthy, and identified him as the alleged robber. One officer got out of the car in an attempt to pursue Mr. Worthy on foot, and Mr. Worthy started to run down the sidewalk along Jamaica Avenue. As they ran, Mr. Worthy turned and fired a gun, striking the chasing officer in the leg. The bullet went through the officer’s leg and struck a bystander in the leg. The chasing officer discharged his firearm in response, striking Mr. Worthy. Mr. Worthy was taken to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The officer and the bystander were treated for their injuries. Officers recovered a gun at the scene.
Under New York’s justification law, a police officer may use deadly physical force when the officer reasonably believes it to be necessary to defend against the use of deadly physical force by another. In this case, as officers attempted to apprehend Mr. Worthy, he fired a gun, striking one officer and a bystander. Under these circumstances, given the law and the evidence, a prosecutor would not be able to disprove beyond a reasonable doubt at trial that the officer’s use of deadly physical force against Mr. Worthy was justified, and therefore OSI determined that criminal charges would not be pursued in this matter.
In this case, officers did not render aid to Mr. Worthy during the five minutes he lay on the ground waiting for the ambulance to arrive. While OSI acknowledges that medical attention outside of a hospital setting would not have saved Mr. Worthy’s life, OSI recommends that NYPD – and all police agencies – emphasize in training that officers must aid any person injured by police use of force, even if the person who needs aid has injured a police officer. Currently, NYPD’s training and policies require that when an officer uses force, officers must “obtain medical attention for any person injured as soon as reasonably possible,” and officers must “render reasonable aid to injured person(s) and/or request an ambulance or doctor to the location as necessary.”
