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New York. Judge Blocks Trump Plan to Scrap 4 Federal Agencies
New York Attorney General Letitia James and a coalition of 20 other state attorneys general won a major court ruling blocking the Trump administration from eliminating four federal agencies that support libraries, museums, minority-owned businesses, workers, and efforts to combat homelessness. A federal judge in Rhode Island granted summary judgment stopping an Executive Order that sought to dismantle the Institute of Museum and Library Services, the Minority Business Development Agency, the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service, and the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness. The court agreed with the attorneys general that the president cannot unilaterally shut down agencies created and funded by Congress, calling the administration’s actions unlawful and barring future attempts to carry out the order. James called the decision a major victory for protecting critical services that communities rely on every day.

Attorney General James Wins Lawsuit Stopping Elimination of Four Vital Federal Agencies

Court Bars Trump Administration from Dismantling Federal Agencies Supporting Libraries, Museums, Minority-Owned Businesses, Workers, and Services for the Unhoused

– New York Attorney General Letitia James today won her lawsuit protecting four federal agencies from being illegally dismantled by the Trump administration. The United States District Court for the District of Rhode Island today granted a motion for summary judgment brought by Attorney General James and a coalition of 20 other attorneys general. In April, Attorney General James co-led the coalition in suing the administration to stop the implementation of an Executive Order that would dismantle the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA), the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS), and the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness (USICH). The court’s order permanently blocks the administration from eliminating these four agencies.

“The federal government’s illegal attack on these agencies threatened vital resources for workers, small businesses, and the most vulnerable in our communities,” said Attorney General James. “This is a major victory in our ongoing work to defend important services that New Yorkers rely on every day. I will keep fighting to stop the chaos and destruction of this administration’s attempts to dismantle our government.”

In April, Attorney General James and the coalition sued to stop the administration’s elimination of three federal agencies:
- IMLS, which supports museums and libraries nationwide through grantmaking, research, and policy development;
- MBDA, which promotes the growth and inclusion of minority-owned businesses through federal financial assistance programs; and
- FMCS, which promotes the peaceful resolution of labor disputes.
In May, Attorney General James and the coalition secured a preliminary injunction stopping the administration from implementing the Executive Order, which sought to dismantle these three agencies. In June, the coalition filed an amended lawsuit seeking to protect another agency targeted by the same Executive Order, USICH, which coordinates the federal government’s efforts to prevent and end homelessness nationwide.

Attorney General James and the coalition argued in the lawsuit that the Executive Order’s elimination of all four agencies violates the Constitution and the Administrative Procedure Act by attempting to override Congress. The president does not have the power to unilaterally eliminate federal agencies created and funded by Congress, and he cannot arbitrarily and suddenly cease agency programs. In its decision on the motion for summary judgment, the District Court sided with Attorney General James and the coalition, ruling that the administration’s actions were unlawful, and barred the administration from taking any future actions to carry out the Executive Order’s elimination of the four agencies.

This lawsuit is led by Attorney General James and the attorneys general of Rhode Island and Hawaii. Joining the lawsuit are the attorneys general of Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oregon, Vermont, Washington, and Wisconsin.

Letitia James

New York State Attorney General

November 21, 2025

NEW YORK

Sources: Ag.ny.gov , Big New York news BigNY.com
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November 23, 2025
New York. Governor Hochul Announces Thanksgiving Enforcement Initiative Targeting Impaired and Reckless Driving

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that the New York State Police and local law enforcement agencies throughout the state will increase patrols to target impaired and reckless driving during the Thanksgiving travel season. Funded by the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee (GTSC), the special enforcement period runs from Saturday, November 22 through Sunday, November 30 and also will address other unsafe driving behaviors, including violations of the state’s Move Over Law.

“Thanksgiving is the beginning of the busy holiday season with thousands of people traveling to gather and celebrate with friends and family,” Governor Hochul said. “Those celebrations should not be marred by tragedy caused by impaired or reckless driving on our roadways. I urge drivers to stay alert, stay sober and move over when you see vehicles stopped on the side of the road. I thank our troopers and local law enforcement for spending time away from their loved ones to work on Thanksgiving and throughout the holidays to help keep New York’s roadways safe.”

In addition to increased traffic volume during the Thanksgiving holiday period, it also is a time of the year associated with increased alcohol use. During the 2024 Thanksgiving holiday period, law enforcement officers arrested 1,705 drivers for driving while impaired or intoxicated, and issued 10,078 speeding tickets, and 1,702 tickets for distracted driving.

New York State Department of Motor Vehicles Commissioner and GTSC Chair Mark J.F. Schroeder said, “We want everyone to enjoy the Thanksgiving holiday with their friends and families this year and for years to come. Impaired driving can change the very fabric of a family and alter holiday memories forever. Nobody wants to live with the consequences of poor decisions that could have been easily avoided.”

New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James said, “Every year, there are preventable tragedies and a wake of victims left behind because of the decisions made by reckless and impaired drivers. As we drive throughout the state to see our family and friends this Thanksgiving holiday, driver safety is absolutely imperative. The New York State Police proudly joins our law enforcement partners in the continued effort to discourage, detect, and apprehend impaired and drunk drivers.”

The State Police will supplement regular patrols statewide through efforts including fixed sobriety checkpoints and utilizing Concealed Identity Traffic Enforcement (CITE) patrol vehicles to better spot distracted drivers and those talking or texting on handheld devices. These unmarked vehicles blend in with everyday traffic but are unmistakable as emergency vehicles once the emergency lighting is activated.

The average drinking and driving arrest costs up to $10,000. Individuals arrested for drunk and drugged driving face the loss of their driver’s license, higher insurance rates, and expenses from attorney fees, fines, car towing and repairs, and lost time at work.

Construction Closures Suspended

To help ease travel during the busy holiday season, lane closures for road and bridge construction projects on New York State highways will be suspended beginning 6 a.m. on Wednesday, November 26 through 6 a.m. on Monday, December 1.

The construction suspension aligns with New York State’s Drivers First Initiative, which prioritizes the convenience of motorists to minimize traffic congestion and travel delays due to road and bridge work. Motorists should be aware some work may continue behind permanent concrete barriers or for emergency repairs.

Motorists must follow the state’s Move Over Law, which was expanded in March 2024 to require drivers to slow down and move over for all vehicles stopped along the roadway. The Thruway Authority and state Department of Transportation urge motorists to stay alert while driving, slow down and safely move over when they see a vehicle on the side of the road. The lives of motorists, employees, roadway workers and emergency personnel depend on it.

Text stops, including park-and-ride facilities, rest stops, service areas and parking areas along state highways support the state’s effort to reduce distracted driving. 

In advance of the busy travel week for the Thanksgiving holiday, all 27 service areas located on the New York State Thruway are now open. Motorists can view the service areas and plan their stops on the Thruway Authority’s website and on the free mobile app, which is available to download for free on iPhone and Android devices. The app also provides motorists direct access to real-time traffic and navigation assistance while on the go. Motorists can also sign up for TRANSalert emails, which provide the latest conditions along the Thruway.

Travelers can also check NYSDOT’s 511NY before traveling by calling 5-1-1, visiting the 511 website, or downloading the free 511NY mobile app on the App Store or Google Play. The free service allows users to check road conditions, view 2,219 traffic cameras and link to air and transit information. The app features Drive mode, which provides audible alerts along a chosen route while a user is driving, warning them about incidents and construction.

New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, “The Thanksgiving holiday weekend is one of the most important times of the year for families across New York to gather with their loved ones, and we want to make sure everyone gets to their destinations safely.  By lifting construction restrictions during one of the busiest weekends for travel, we’re helping all New Yorkers spend less time in traffic and more time with one another. We urge all motorists to drive carefully this holiday season, and if you do come across one of our crews over the coming weeks, please slow down and give them room to do their jobs safely.”

New York State Thruway Authority Executive Director Frank G. Hoare said, “The Thanksgiving holiday weekend is one of the busiest travel times of the year, and suspending construction activities will help motorists get to their destinations with fewer delays. We urge motorists to make safety a priority-remain alert, don’t drive distracted or impaired, and slow down and move over if it’s safe to do so for all vehicles on the side of the road. We thank our partners at New York State Police Troop T for patrolling the Thruway and keeping motorists safe.”  

Chautauqua County Sheriff and President of the NYS Sheriffs’ Association James Quattrone said, “The Thanksgiving holiday is a great opportunity to spend time with family and friends. It is also a time when some people may drive impaired which puts themselves and others in danger. Law enforcement will be on the lookout for impaired and aggressive drivers. The Sheriffs of New York State want you to enjoy the long holiday weekend, be safe, courteous drivers, and have a plan to not drive impaired.”

New York State Association of Chiefs of Police President and Mount Pleasant Police Department Paul Oliva said, “As we enter the season of giving thanks for our blessings, local law enforcement will be out conducting Impaired Driver and Excessive Speed engagement details, ensuring that travel on our roadways is safe for everyone. Please drive attentively so all can make their destinations to enjoy the holiday weekend with family and friends.”

The Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee and the New York State STOP-DWI Foundation remind motorists that their “Have a Plan” mobile app, is available for Apple, Android and Windows smartphones. The app enables New Yorkers to locate and call a taxi or rideshare service and program a designated driver list. It also provides information on DWI laws and penalties and provides a way to report a suspected impaired driver.

November 22, 2025

Albany, NY

Sources: Governor.ny.gov , Midtown Tribune news
Big New York news BigNY.com

Midtown Tribune Independent USA news from New York

November 23, 2025
Hochul backs Mamdani, slams Stefanik and vows focus on affordability

On MS NOW’s All In, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said the President’s meeting with Zohran Mamdani showed New York City is “in good hands” with a leader focused on public safety and affordability, making federal steps like sending in the National Guard unnecessary as crime drops and subways get safer. She said she’ll partner with the mayor-elect to build more housing, expand childcare and push down utility costs, arguing voters are “exhausted” and want leaders who understand their struggles. Hochul also blasted Rep. Elise Stefanik’s attacks on Mamdani as extreme and dangerous, and said as leader of the state Democratic Party she backed Mamdani early because New York City is the economic engine of the state and the nation.

Governor Hochul Is a Guest on “All In” With Chris Hayes on MS NOW

Governor Hochul: “[We have to] set the tone to let the President know that the city is in good hands. That we have a mayor who is vested in its success and keeping people safe and being laser focused on affordability. And so once they kind of came to those terms, I think we are in a much better place. And, we’ll just continue focusing on New York and our people as I will.”

Hochul: “I want to make sure that we get over the finish line. Building more housing. I’ve been talking about this for years. We can focus on childcare to help families that are struggling. We can do what we can to drive down utility costs, because that’s what the voters are expecting. They’re exhausted, they’re tired, they’re looking for real leadership of people who understand what they’re going through.”

Earlier tonight, Governor Hochul was a guest on “All In” with Chris Hayes on MS NOW.

AUDIO: The Governor’s remarks are available in audio form here.

A rush transcript of the Governor’s remarks is available below:

Chris Hayes, MS NOW: Governor, it’s good to have you, and I have to ask you what — was that the way that you saw this going?

Governor Hochul: Well, I’ve had meetings with the President and the White House as well, so, I wasn’t terribly surprised. I know the mayor very well. I believe that he demonstrated credible leadership by willing to go into the White House and have this conversation. And so it was probably a lot friendlier than people expected, but they’re both people. I had a sense they both get along in this context, when they’re talking about issues where there’s a common bond and a common interest, which appears to be affordability is something I’ve talked about for a long time.

The mayor has leaned into, in a way that was powerful. And so anyone who wants to work with us, to drive down the cost of living in New York. We’ll have those meetings, we’ll have those conversations and hopefully get things really done.

Chris Hayes, MS NOW: Partly this is optics and partly it’s interpersonal relationships, and partly it is I think the fact the President’s actually in person pretty conflict diverse. But there’s real stakes here. I mean, we have seen the videos and headlines out of Los Angeles, out of Chicago, out of Charlotte —- border patrol wrestling people to the ground, breaking people’s windows, children running from church, U.S. citizens having people with helicopters repel down their buildings, right?

So far, we have not seen that level of targeting of the City of New York by the federal DHS. Do you think today’s meeting is a welcome development in forestalling or avoiding that kind of faith?

Governor Hochul: Absolutely. First of all, this was an important takeaway. This was my hope that the President would see in Zohran Mamdani — someone who can lead the city, who is focused on public safety, who is working on affordability and quality of life issues and to give the President who is a New Yorker, who cares about the city, the confidence to know that he can lead. And I will continue to be his partner and make sure he’s successful.

But I also had a conversation with the President a few months ago, about it was unnecessary to send the National Guard to New York. Our crime rates are going down. We’ve worked hard on this. Our subways are safer than they’ve been in decades. So I said to the President, “You don’t need to send the National Guard in. We have 35,000 sworn members of the NYPD who work hard every day to protect our city. But if we need help, Mr. President, we’ll give you a call.” And he hasn’t called. We’re fine. I haven’t had to talk to him about that.

So I think between that, and also this really important meeting, set the tone to let the President know that the city is in good hands. That we have a mayor who is vested in its success and keeping people safe and being laser focused on affordability. And so once they kind of came to those terms, I think we are in a much better place. And, we’ll just continue focusing on New York and our people as I will. And the President has certainly has other issues to be concerned about, rather than sending troops into our streets.

Chris Hayes, MS NOW: A lot of people have noted political observers that one of the political casualties of today was Elise Stefanik, the New York member of Congress, who has announced she will be running against you for governor. And part of the reason is that she has — out of the gate — basically tried to tie you to Zohran Mamdani. She’s also keeps calling him a ‘jihadist,’ which I personally find really gross, bigoted, and objectionable. This was — he was asked about that and he swatted it away. He said, he doesn’t see it that way.

I want to read you her statement today after the meeting. “We all want New York City to succeed, but we’ll have to agree to disagree on this one. If he walks like a jihadist, if he talks like a jihadist, if he campaigns like a jihadist. If he supports jihadist, he’s a jihadist, and he’s Kathy Hochul’s jihadist.” Do you have a response to that?

Governor Hochul: She’s full of shit. I’m sorry. I mean, she really is. I mean, this is such an extreme position. Such an extreme position. She’s even more extreme than Donald Trump. I didn’t think that was possible. But she’s succeeded in proving that today she’s out-MAGA’d Donald Trump, the founder of the MAGA Movement.

So I hope she’s proud of herself, continuing to spew hateful thoughts and deeds and instead — and trying to create more violence in our political rhetoric. I think it’s disgusting, it’s abhorent, but that’s who she is, and people are seeing this, and even the President — realize that’s even too far for him.

Chris Hayes, MS NOW: On the politics of this as well, you were fairly early in endorsing Zohran Mamdani after he won the primary. Others took much longer like Hakeem Jeffries — notably the Senate minority leader, Chuck Schumer, who of course represents the State of New York in the US Senate, has never endorsed him. Given the fact that even Donald Trump seemed amenable to working with Mamdani and seemed charmed by him. Does it make the Senate Minority Leader’s lack of endorsement, kind of stand out as even more strange?

Governor Hochul: No, I won’t comment on that because everyone does what they need to do, but for me, it was important to show as the leader of the Democratic Party in the State of New York, this was our Democratic nominee, and we all should be interested, invested, and committed to his success. Because New York City is the economic engine of not just our state, but the entire nation. So never root against New York City. And I’ve pledged to work with the mayor, the new Mayor-Elect.

We’ve had many conversations and meetings that are extremely productive. And again, I want to make sure that we get over the finish line. Building more housing. I’ve been talking about this for years. We can focus on childcare to help families that are struggling. We can do what we can to drive down utility costs, because that’s what the voters are expecting. They’re exhausted, they’re tired, they’re looking for real leadership of people who understand what they’re going through.

I do for my own life story, I see people going through this now. I know it’s real and that’s what we can do in New York. So I think it’s going to be a new era, a new chapter for New York City, and I’m really excited to continue partnering with the mayor — the Mayor-Elect.

Chris Hayes, MS NOW: All right, Governor Kathy Hochul from Albany. Thank you very much. Appreciate it.

Governor Hochul: Alright, thank you.

November 21, 2025

Albany, NY

Sources: Governor.ny.gov , Big New York news BigNY.com ,
Midtown Tribune news

Midtown Tribune Independent USA news from New York

November 22, 2025
Hochul Vows New York Will Lead on ‘Responsible AI’ Despite Broadband Funding Clash

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul is blasting the Trump administration, saying the White House is threatening to pull hundreds of millions of dollars in rural broadband funding from upstate communities because the state passed tough new rules on artificial intelligence.
Hochul says the AI safeguards are designed to protect kids, workers and consumers, and accuses Washington of siding with big corporations that don’t want to take basic steps to prevent AI-related harm. Calling the move “unacceptable,” she vows to keep fighting for working families and to keep New York at the forefront of “responsible AI” policy.

Statement from Governor Kathy Hochul

“We passed some of the nation’s strongest AI safeguards to protect kids, workers and consumers. Now, the White House is threatening to withhold hundreds of millions of dollars in broadband funding meant for rural upstate communities, all to shield big corporations from taking basic steps to prevent potential harm from AI.

“This is unacceptable. In New York, we protect working families and set the standard for the nation. I will continue to fight to ensure our state remains a global leader in responsible AI.”

Sources: Governor.ny.gov , Big New York news BigNY.com

Midtown Tribune Independent USA news from New York

November 20, 2025
N.Y. governor, education chief blast Trump plan to kill Education Department: ‘Won’t go down without a fight’

ALBANY, N.Y. — New York Gov. Kathy Hochul and state Education Commissioner Betty Rosa fired back Wednesday at President-elect Donald Trump’s push to eliminate the U.S. Department of Education, calling the move “catastrophic” and a “direct attack” on the state’s schools. In a sharply worded joint statement, the Democratic leaders warned that breaking up the federal agency and shifting its duties elsewhere would put millions of New York students at risk and disrupt everything from special education services to civil rights enforcement in classrooms. “We won’t go down without a fight – not when our kids are on the line,” they declared, vowing to defend public education against what they described as an attempt to dismantle the nation’s school system.

Joint Statement from Governor Kathy Hochul and State Education Commissioner Betty Rosa

“The Trump administration’s decision to tear apart the Department of Education carries catastrophic consequences for education nationwide. By outsourcing the Department’s responsibilities to other federal agencies, the administration is moving closer to its misguided goal of dismantling our education system, and in doing so, threatens to upend New York’s school system, putting millions of students’ educations at risk. Make no mistake, this maneuver is a direct attack on New York teachers, students, and families and its effects will be felt in schools statewide.

“New York is committed to standing up for our students and ensuring their futures remain front and center. We won’t go down without a fight – not when our kids are on the line.”

November 18, 2025

Albany, NY

Sources: Governor.ny.gov/ , Big New York News BigNY.com

November 18, 2025
NYPD Officer-Involved Shooting in Manhattan Prompts State Investigation

MANHATTAN — New York Attorney General Letitia James’ Office of Special Investigation opened a probe Friday into the fatal police shooting of an armed man during a confrontation on Madison Avenue, authorities said. The incident unfolded around 7:20 p.m. Thursday after multiple 911 callers reported a man brandishing a gun; NYPD officers located a suspect matching the description holding a firearm, and when he opened fire, police returned shots, striking him. He was rushed to a nearby hospital but pronounced dead on arrival, with officers recovering a gun from the scene. Under state law, the OSI must review any death potentially caused by on- or off-duty officers, armed or not, and these early details remain preliminary as the full investigation proceeds.

Attorney General James’ Office of Special Investigation Opens Investigation into Civilian Death in Manhattan

– The New York Attorney General’s Office of Special Investigation (OSI) has opened an investigation into the death of a civilian who died on November 13, 2025 following an encounter with members of the New York City Police Department (NYPD) in Manhattan.

At approximately 7:20 p.m. on November 13, NYPD officers were canvassing an area after receiving multiple 911 calls reporting a man with a gun. Officers encountered a man matching the description with a gun in his hand at an address on Madison Avenue in Manhattan. The man fired the gun, and officers discharged their service weapons in response, striking the man. He was taken to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Officers recovered a gun at the scene.

Pursuant to New York State Executive Law Section 70-b, OSI assesses every incident reported to it where a police officer or a peace officer, including a corrections officer, may have caused the death of a person by an act or omission. Under the law, the officer may be on-duty or off-duty, and the decedent may be armed or unarmed. Also, the decedent may or may not be in custody or incarcerated. If OSI’s assessment indicates an officer may have caused the death, OSI proceeds to conduct a full investigation of the incident.

These are preliminary facts and subject to change.

Letitia James

New York State Attorney General

November 14, 2025

NEW YORK

Sources: AG.ny.gov/ Big New York news BigNY.com
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November 17, 2025
Harlem’s Iconic Studio Museum Reopens in $160M Masterpiece: Gov. Hochul Unveils Stunning New Home with $11M State Boost

New York — Gov. Kathy Hochul joined Harlem leaders to cut the ribbon on the Studio Museum in Harlem’s long-awaited $160 million new home, a seven-story landmark that replaces a temporary space the institution occupied since construction began in 2018. Backed by nearly $11 million in state funding—including $7 million from the New York State Council on the Arts and $3.5 million from Empire State Development—the 82,000-square-foot building designed by Adjaye Associates features galleries inspired by neighborhood brownstones, a top-lit interior echoing local churches, artist studios, education spaces and a roof terrace with sweeping city views. “This is a lasting community cornerstone that will champion artists of African descent for generations,” Hochul said, as officials hailed the museum’s role in boosting tourism, creating jobs and marking the 100th anniversary of the Harlem Renaissance.

Governor Hochul Celebrates the Opening
of the Studio Museum in Harlem’s New Home]

Governor Kathy Hochul … celebrated the grand opening of Studio Museum in Harlem’s new home. Created expressly for the needs of the museum and its communities, the $160 million, seven-floor, 82,000 square-foot building takes its inspiration from the brownstone, churches and bustling sidewalks of Harlem. The project is supported by a combined $10.9 million state investment, including over $7 million from the New York State Council on the Arts and $3.5 million from Empire State Development, recommended by the New York City Regional Economic Development Council.

“The Studio Museum has been one of the centerpieces of Harlem arts and culture since 1968,” Governor Hochul said. “New York’s support of this incredible achievement has helped create a lasting and living community cornerstone that will continue to celebrate and champion artists of African descent for generations to come.”

Closed for construction since 2018, the new Studio Museum building, designed by Adjaye Associates with Cooper Robertson serving as executive architect, expresses the Museum’s core values of openness and engagement, while also providing exceptional new spaces to elevate the Museum’s service to artists, audiences, the uniquely vibrant Harlem community, and the world of art. The design includes a facade with windows of varying sizes and proportions, echoing the windows of Harlem apartment buildings.

The neighborhood’s churches find a counterpart in a top-lit interior gallery while an interior “stoop” can be used as benches for watching lectures, performances, and films presented on the building’s lower level. Galleries are configured in assorted proportions to accommodate the wide variety of works in the permanent collection and temporary exhibitions. Studios for the artists in residence and education spaces will be located adjacent to exhibition galleries to facilitate exchanges with the community. Finally, a roof terrace will offer striking views of Harlem and the rest of the city.

Founded in 1968 by a diverse group of artists, community activists, and philanthropists, the Studio Museum in Harlem is internationally known for its catalytic role in promoting the work of artists of African descent.

New York State Council on the Arts Executive Director Erika Mallin said, “For over 50 years, NYSCA has proudly supported the Studio Museum in Harlem, a beacon for emerging artists and a premier global museum. We are proud to have provided over $7 million for their new home, empowering the Studio Museum to continue their distinguished legacy to serve and inspire the next generation of artists, engaging residents and visitors alike.”

Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “The Studio Museum’s new home is a testament to Harlem’s cultural strength and to New York State’s commitment to investing in places where creativity and community meet. The Studio Museum’s new facility will generate millions in economic activity, create jobs across multiple sectors, and reinforce our state’s tourism economy. By supporting world-class cultural institutions like this, we’re supporting economic growth that benefits all New Yorkers while showcasing the creativity that makes our state a magnet for talent and investment worldwide.”

NYCREDC Co-Chairs Félix V. Matos Rodríguez, City University of New York Chancellor and William D. Rahm, CEO of Everview Partners, said, “For over five decades, the Studio Museum has been a classroom, a launching pad, and a gathering place for Harlem. This new building expands those possibilities exponentially—providing students with cutting-edge educational technology, offering emerging artists professional development opportunities, and creating free public spaces where communities can connect with transformative art that reflects their experiences and aspirations. This project embodies the kind of inclusive growth and community-centered development the Regional Economic Development Council is proud to support.”

The Studio Museum in Harlem Ford Foundation Director and Chief Curator Thelma Golden said, “The Studio Museum in Harlem is deeply grateful for the vital leadership of Governor Kathy Hochul, the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature. I also want to extend our profound appreciation to the Executive Director of The New York State Council on the Arts Erika Mallin; and the Commissioner and CEO of Empire State Development Hope Knight for all that they have made possible through their commitment to this institution over the years. Thanks to each of these organizations and all those within them, the Studio Museum now inhabits an incredible new building which makes it all the more possible for us to continue the work our founders set out to do in 1968 while ensuring we remain an essential gathering space for everyone in our Harlem community and beyond.”

State Senator Cordell Cleare said, “As we embrace the 100th Anniversary of the Harlem Renaissance, there is no better way to celebrate than with the opening of the new home of the Studio Museum In Harlem. The Studio Museum is an iconic institution representing over 200 years of Black History, Creativity and Lived Experience. Thank you to the project partners who made this day possible and to the Harlem Community who deserves this project and investment.”

Assemblymember Jordan J. G. Wright said, “Today we join to celebrate a truly momentous occasion- the grand reopening of one of Harlem’s most beloved and iconic institutions: the Studio Museum. With a global reputation for excellence, the Studio Museum has elevated Black art and artists since opening its doors in 1968. Today, we usher in a new era of excellence where that commitment will continue in a space that matches its unparalleled exhibits and programming. In so many ways, I was raised by the Studio Museum, as my mother was employed there while I was growing up. I am beyond lucky to have grown up surrounded by not just the incredible works showcased by the museum over the years, but by all of the creative, dynamic, passionate people who make it happen as well as the vibrant Village of Harlem that allows it to thrive. Thank you to Thelma Golden for being a driving force behind the museum’s success and an absolute pillar in the Harlem community. I am proud to be a part of this historic reopening and look forward to seeing the dream achieved by the Studio Museum continue, in its new home, long into the future!”

Retired Deputy Majority Whip of the New York State Assembly, Honorable Inez E. Dickens said, “I am deeply grateful to Governor Kathy Hochul for this historic $10 million investment to complete the new home of the Studio Museum in Harlem, Our global nexus for artists of African descent and for work shaped and inspired by Black culture. During my tenure in the New York State Assembly, I was proud to secure nearly $1 million dollars for this institution, but without Governor Hochul’s leadership and commitment, that investment could not have reached its fullest impact. Long before my service in Albany, as Majority Whip of the New York City Council, I funded the initial steps to launch this renovation and helped negotiate the unification of the one City lot and one State lot that the Studio Museum now calls home. To stand here today and witness Harlem on the cusp of a fully realized, newly renovated Studio Museum is a profound honor, and I am immensely proud of what this partnership between State, City, and community will mean for generations of artists, families, and visitors from around the world. Thank you, Governor Kathy Hochul.”

New York City Councilmember Yuseef Salaam said, “Today, we celebrate the historic reopening of the Studio Museum in Harlem, a cultural cornerstone that has shaped the global understanding of Black creativity, history, and identity. For generations, the works of visionary artists have told the powerful, complex, and beautiful stories of the Black diaspora. Their voices, expressed through paint, sculpture, photography, and countless other forms, have helped us see ourselves with greater clarity.”

This September, Governor Kathy Hochul announced that more than $80 million in NYSCA funding is now available competitively to support capital projects for non-profit arts and cultural organizations. NYSCA’s Capital Projects Fund supports arts and cultural nonprofits seeking State funding for investments in capital improvements that allow organizations to sustain and expand cultural programming for diverse audiences, promote accessibility and environmental sustainability, preserve and create jobs, and ultimately contribute to the growth of New York’s dynamic arts and tourism sectors.

About the New York State Council on the Arts
The mission of the New York State Council on the Arts is to foster and advance the full breadth of New York State’s arts, culture, and creativity for all. To support the ongoing recovery of the arts across New York State, the Council on the Arts will award over $161 million in FY 2026, serving organizations and artists across all 10 state regions. The Council on the Arts further advances New York’s creative culture by convening leaders in the field and providing organizational and professional development opportunities and informational resources. Created by Governor Nelson Rockefeller in 1960 and continued with the support of Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York State Legislature, the Council is an agency that is part of the Executive Branch. For more information on NYSCA, please visit arts.ny.gov, and follow NYSCA’s Facebook page, on X @NYSCArts and Instagram @NYSCouncilontheArts.

About Empire State Development
Empire State Development is New York’s chief economic development agency, and promotes business growth, job creation, and greater economic opportunity throughout the state. With offices in each of the state’s 10 regions, ESD oversees the Regional Economic Development Councils, supports broadband equity through the ConnectALL office, and is growing the workforce of tomorrow through the Office of Strategic Workforce Development. The agency engages with emerging and next generation industries like clean energy and semiconductor manufacturing looking to grow in New York State, operates a network of assistance centers to help small businesses grow and succeed, and promotes the state’s world class tourism destinations through I LOVE NY. For more information, please visit esd.ny.gov, and connect with ESD on LinkedIn, Facebook and X.

November 14, 2025

Albany, NY

Sources: Governor.ny.gov , Big New York news BigNY.com
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November 15, 2025
Mayor Eric Adams Announces New Model to Have New York City’s 911 Mental Health Crisis Response Initiative, B-Heard, Be Fully Operated by NYC Health + Hospitals
– New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced a major evolution of Behavioral Health Emergency Assistance Response Division (B-HEARD) — the city’s health-led response to 911 mental health calls — that will shift the focus even further towards a health-first response by streamlining management to be fully operated and managed by NYC Health + Hospitals in the coming months. As part of the transition, Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY) emergency medical technicians (EMTs) previously assigned to B-HEARD will be reassigned to other emergency response units as part of the city’s efforts to improve ambulance response times in cases of emergencies. This change will preserve EMTs for the most critical medical emergency responses while enabling B-HEARD to continue featuring medical and mental health professionals for nonviolent mental health 911 calls. After the transition, B-HEARD will continue to send out response teams to nonviolent 911 mental health calls with medical and mental health professionals. The new model is expected to take effect in the spring of 2026. Today’s announcement further builds on Mayor Adams’ commitment to supporting New Yorkers with serious mental illness and treating the city’s mental health crisis as a public health issue.

“Today, we are proud to announce a new model for our city’s response to 911 mental health calls that will be fully operated by NYC Health + Hospitals ,” said Mayor Adams. “This new model for B-HEARD will allow our FDNY EMTs the opportunity to focus further on other emergency response units as part of our city’s efforts to improve ambulance response times and use our resources more efficiently, while still addressing mental health emergencies we continue to see playing out in our city. From day one, our administration’s goal has been to keep New Yorkers safe and to help those struggling with severe mental illness; doing this means we must provide treatment and support to those in crises in the most efficient and compassionate way possible. We are building a culture of compassion in the name of public safety, public health, and the public interest, and we are proud to be delivering just that.”

“NYC Health + Hospitals is proud to be the largest provider of behavioral health services in New York City, and our commitment to the city’s innovative B-HEARD program is unwavering,” said NYC Health + Hospitals President and CEO Mitchell Katz, MD. “We are grateful to our outstanding partners in the program’s first iteration, and we look forward to continuing its evolution as we serve New Yorkers in mental health crisis.”

Launched in 2021, B-HEARD was created as an interagency collaboration between the FDNY and NYC Health + Hospitals with oversight from the Mayor’s Office of Community Mental Health (OCMH). During its initial years of operation, B-HEARD partnered EMTs and mental health clinicians to respond as a team to 911 mental health calls without violence or weapons as the primary concern.

Over the life of the program — between its launch in 2021 through June 2025 — B-HEARD teams have responded to nearly 35,000 mental health 911 calls. Of the patients who received a mental health assessment by a NYC Health + Hospitals clinician, 43 percent were served in the community instead of being transported to a hospital emergency department. B-HEARD teams work to understand each individual’s needs, de-escalate situations, and, whenever possible, connect with family members and the individual’s existing clinicians to determine the best path forward. The program achieved an overwhelming patient-satisfaction rate with 96 percent of survey respondents reporting B-HEARD helped them and 94 percent agreeing that the B-HEARD response was more appropriate for their needs than the traditional emergency response they had previously received. Each B-HEARD response reflects New York City’s commitment to responding to the mental health crisis with the most appropriate care and reducing unnecessary use of a hospital’s emergency department and of police resources.

NYC Health + Hospitals is the largest provider of behavioral health in New York City. The system provides over 60 percent of behavioral health services citywide, serving over 78,000 patients annually across emergency, inpatient, and outpatient care.

Commitment to Mental Health

In 2023, Mayor Adams announced a sweeping mental health agenda, “Care, Community, Action: A Mental Health Plan for New York City,” with $20 million in new commitments that invested in, among other initiatives, an online hub to connect New Yorkers with serious mental illness to care, as well as a substantial expansion of the clubhouse program.

Alongside the Adams administration’s focus on mental health, Mayor Adams also launched “HealthyNYC” in November 2023, an ambitious plan to extend the average lifespan of all New Yorkers by, among other things, reducing the impact of deaths related to mental health, like overdoses, suicide, and homicides, by 2030. Additionally, HealthyNYC expands access to culturally responsive mental health care and social support services, including early intervention for communities of color and LGBTQIA+ youth, and helps address the impact of social media on youth mental health and suicidal ideation to reduce suicide deaths.

Later that month, Mayor Adams announced “Teenspace” — the city’s tele-mental health service available to all New York City teenagers between the ages of 13 and 17 at no cost. In the first six months of the program, the service — created in partnership with online therapy platform Talkspace — allowed more than 6,800 New York City teenagers to connect with a licensed therapist through phone, video, and text for free.

The announcement builds on the work of the Adams administration in addressing the crises of severe mental illness on New York City streets. In August 2025, Mayor Adams launched the “End the Culture of Anything Goes” campaign to highlight the work the administration has done to change the culture and laws that prevented people with severe mental illness from getting the help they needed while making the investments necessary to support outreach, harm reduction, wraparound services, and housing to make lasting impacts in lives and communities. As part of this campaign, Mayor Adams made a series of announcements promoting the administration’s efforts to help New Yorkers struggling with severe mental illness and substance addiction while simultaneously addressing quality of life and public safety on New York City streets, including:
- Announcing a major milestone to connect over 3,500 homeless New Yorkers from streets and subways to permanent housing, including over 1,000 New Yorkers from the subways as a result of Mayor Adams’ Subway Safety Plan, first launched in 2022.
- An expansion of the New York City Police Department’s (NYPD’s) Quality of Life Division, or “Q-Teams,” announced earlier this year, to every precinct and all housing commands citywide. Q-Teams focus on tackling daily issues that impact New Yorkers’ sense of safety and well-being, including cracking down on illegal mopeds, towing abandoned vehicles, cleaning up encampments, addressing outdoor drug use, responding to noise complaints, and more.
- Opening of 13 newly contracted clubhouses — the city’s first procurement of clubhouses in nearly 30 years — to support people with severe mental illness thanks to a $30 million investment by the Adams administration.
- Launching the city’s first-ever Involuntary Transports Dashboard, which allows New Yorkers to track trends in involuntary transports and better understand how the city connects individuals with emergency psychiatric care, while simultaneously upholding the administration’s commitment to transparency.
- Announcing a new proposal to further support New Yorkers’ struggling with substance use disorder and to address public drug use, as well as a $27-million investment focused on improving access to substance use disorder treatment through outreach and enhanced treatment strategies.
- Opening the Bridge to Home facility, a new, innovative support model designed to help patients living with severe mental illness who are ready to be discharged from the hospital but do not have a place to go.
- Opening two additional Extended Care Units in the city’s public hospitals, where patients can stay for up to 120 days after being discharged from an inpatient psychiatric unit, receive psychopharmacological treatment, and pursue rehabilitative activities.
Strong Fiscal Management

In the lead up to the upcoming November 2025 Financial Plan Update, Mayor Adams recently announced a new investment that will increase the uniformed headcount of the NYPD by 5,000 officers, increasing the total number of officers to 40,000 — the highest level in 20 years — by Fiscal Year (FY) 2029. Mayor Adams is making an investment of $17.8 million in the upcoming fiscal year that will increase to $315.8 million by FY 2029 to support the phased-in hiring of the additional 5,000 officers by July 2028.

Today’s announcement follows Mayor Adams’ long history of strong fiscal management, including delivering an on-time, balanced, and fiscally-responsible $115.9 billion Adopted Budget earlier this year, which built on the FY 2026 Executive Budget, often called the “Best Budget Ever.” The Executive Budget doubled down on Mayor Adams’ commitment to make New York City the best place to raise a family by, among other things, investing in “After-School for All,” a $755-million plan to deliver universal after-school programming to families of children in kindergarten through eighth grade; baselining funding for 3-K citywide expansion and special education pre-K to build on the administration’s work to dramatically expand access to early childhood education; investing over $400 million to fully fund the transformation of Fifth Avenue in Manhattan into a world-class, pedestrian-centered boulevard; and revitalizing “The Arches,” the public space on the Manhattan side of the Brooklyn Bridge. The FY 2026 Adopted Budget was also the first to implement Mayor Adams’ landmark “Axe the Tax for the Working Class” plan, which abolishes and cuts New York City’s personal income tax for filers with dependents living at or below 150 percent of the federal poverty line. Because of this plan — which the Adams administration successfully fought to pass in Albany this budget cycle — $63 million will go back into the pockets of over 582,000 low-income New York filers, including their dependents, helping make New York City more affordable for working-class families.

November 14, 2025

New York, NY

Sources: NYC.gov , Big New York news BigNY.com
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November 15, 2025
New York. Governor Hochul & Mayor Adams Extend Roosevelt Island Master Lease and Launch Community Planning for New Housing & Infrastructure

Governor Kathy Hochul and Mayor Eric Adams announced a 10-year extension of the Roosevelt Island Master Lease to 2078, securing housing stability and financial certainty for over 5,500 residential units and 12,000 residents. Alongside the extension, a joint planning and community engagement process with the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC) will explore new affordable housing, infrastructure upgrades, and public amenities, including potential redevelopment of the former Steam Plant site and the NYC Health + Hospitals/Coler campus. The initiative aims to preserve the island’s unique character while preparing for sustainable growth, with long-term lease updates to reflect community priorities and streamline operations between the State, City, and RIOC.

November 14, 2025

Albany, NY

Sources: Governor.ny.gov , Big New York news BigNY.com
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November 14, 2025
NY Governor Hochul Launches ‘The Morgan’ – 50 Affordable Homes with Mental Health Support in Jamaica, Queens

Governor Kathy Hochul has broken ground on “The Morgan,” an eight-story, all-electric affordable housing development in Jamaica, Queens, delivering 50 new homes—including 30 supportive units for New Yorkers with serious mental illness. Backed by a $32.5 million investment, the project features on-site case management, 24/7 staff, skill-building programs, a library, outdoor terrace, garden, and free Wi-Fi. Funded through state mental health initiatives, low-income housing tax credits, and city partnerships, The Morgan replaces a vacant lot with a sustainable, community-focused residence that promotes stability, recovery, and dignity for vulnerable residents.

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Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the start of construction on a development that will add 50 units of affordable housing in the Jamaica area of Queens, including 30 units to serve New Yorkers living with serious mental illness. The project to build ‘The Morgan’ resulted from a $32.5 million investment — including $12.4 million through the State Office of Mental Health (OMH) — and is part of Governor Hochul’s effort to expand specialized housing throughout New York.

“We are fully committed to ensuring all New Yorkers have access to affordable housing, including the most vulnerable among us,” Governor Hochul said. “The Morgan will offer much-needed support and dignified housing for individuals living with serious mental illness, providing them with services so they may remain safely and stably housed in the Jamaica area of Queens.”

Transitional Services for New York is developing The Morgan and will create 30 units with supportive services, including case managers, around-the-clock staff, and other services, such as skill development, conflict management and harm reduction, community and social integration, and peer support. The project will also include 20 units of affordable housing serving those earning at or below 50 percent of the area median income.

The project is receiving $12.4 million through OMH capital funding secured as part of Governor Hochul’s landmark $1 billion investment in mental health initiatives and housing, with DASNY assistance at loan closing in anticipation of future long-term financing. Additional investments include approximately $7 million through Homes and Community Renewal’s Low-Income Housing Tax Credit Program, $4 million through the State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance’s Homeless Housing and Assistance Program, and $7 million through New York City’s Housing Preservation & Development Supportive Housing Loan Program.

The project will demolish a vacant house and construct an eight-story, 31,218-square foot building, including a library/computer area, an outdoor terrace, laundry room, recreation space, and garden. The Morgan will be an all-electric, energy-efficient space that incorporates active design features, and with free Wi-Fi for all tenants.

New York State Office of Mental Health Commissioner Dr. Ann Sullivan said, “By providing stable housing for New Yorkers living with serious mental illness, we can create an environment where they can live and thrive in their community. The Morgan will help individuals access supportive services and continue their journey toward recovery. This project represents Governor Hochul’s ongoing investments to strengthen mental health care and provide safe, affordable housing for all.”

New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance Commissioner Barbara C. Guinn said, “The permanent supportive housing units being created as part of this development will provide individuals not only with a safe, affordable place to live, but with easy access to services to help them overcome barriers that may have contributed to them experiencing homelessness. We’re grateful to Governor Hochul and our State partners for their recognition that more than brick and mortar is needed to provide stable housing for some of our most vulnerable fellow New Yorkers.”

New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said, “Our $7 million investment is helping to provide 50 affordable, sustainable, and supportive homes that will help the Jamaica community thrive. We thank our partners for their dedication and look forward to seeing this project progress.”

Dormitory Authority of the State of New York President & CEO Robert J. Rodriguez said, “DASNY is honored to support Governor Hochul’s efforts to expand specialized housing for New Yorkers living with mental illness. Throughout financing assistance and construction oversight, we’re helping ensure The Morgan provides the stable, dignified housing that individuals need to thrive in their community.”

State Senator Leroy Comrie said, “Southeast Queens has been home to several transitional services facilities, and I am happy to welcome permanence and stability into our community to those ready to graduate to independent living. This project helps address one of the biggest gaps in our mental health and housing systems, creating stable, permanent places for people to transition into. Too many New Yorkers complete treatment or supportive programs only to find there is nowhere appropriate for them to successfully and safely continue their development. By expanding housing paired with on-site services, we are giving individuals a real path forward and giving families peace of mind. I’m grateful to see this project advancing in Southeast Queens and look forward to the stability it will bring to our community.”

State Senator Jessica Ramos said, “In Queens, we understand that supportive housing is a lifeline. It’s how we care for our neighbors who need stability, compassion, and a fair chance to rebuild their lives. The Morgan continues that proud tradition. I’m grateful to Governor Hochul for investing in real safety for Queens and expanding the mental health services New Yorkers have long deserved. When we talk about treating mental health, we have to commit to the full picture. That’s housing, dignity, and the holistic support that truly empowers people to heal and thrive.”

State Senator Patricia Fahy said, “Investments in affordable housing and assistance for people living with mental illnesses are needed now more than ever. Providing New Yorkers with the opportunity to live independently fulfilling lives with affordable housing shows where our priorities lie, and that’s with the people. ‘The Morgan’ will not only replace a vacant property; it will create a community that allows New Yorkers living with mental illness to reside safely with access to the services they need. Thank you to Governor Hochul for her continued support of mental health care and investment in specialized housing across New York.”

Assemblymember Angelo Santabarbara said, “Supportive housing helps individuals living with mental illness build stability and independence. Projects like The Morgan are more than new buildings — they offer hope and opportunity for people who deserve the opportunity to thrive in their communities. By expanding access to safe, affordable, and supportive housing, we’re improving our mental health system and building a stronger network of support for those who need it.”

Assemblymember Clyde Vanel said, “Housing that is both affordable and accessible is essential to the well-being of our community. It is vital that we take care of all New Yorkers and provide them with the assistance that they need. I want to thank Governor Hochul for her commitment to mental healthcare and supportive housing.”

OMH has been aggressively expanding specialized housing, including 1,276 new units associated with Governor Hochul’s mental health initiative, with an additional 2,224 housing units under development. This includes 500 new community residence-single room occupancy units, 750 supportive housing-single room occupancy units, and 900 short-term transitional residential units designed to help New Yorkers living with mental illness reside safely within their community.

TSINY Chief Executive Officer Dr. Larry Grubler said, “We are proud to partner with New York State in establishing these additional units of supportive housing in the community. The Morgan will continue our mission of offering stable housing and access to services for residents who have traditionally faced hurdles in securing them. We share Governor Hochul’s vision for adding housing units and supporting New Yorkers in need.”

November 13, 2025

Albany, NY

Sources: Governor.ny.gov , Big New York news BigNY.com
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November 13, 2025

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