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As the deadline for New York's state budget approaches on Tuesday (April 1), lawmakers in Albany are taking a break from sessions due to the Eid Mubarak holiday. With the budget still not finalized, a short-term budget extender is likely to be approved to ensure the state meets its payroll obligations.
Key issues remain unresolved, including restrictions on mask wearing during protests, cellphone use in schools, and changes to discovery laws. Governor Kathy Hochul's proposal to ban smartphone use in schools from opening to closing bell is gaining traction. Legislative leaders, including Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins, have expressed support for the ban, though details are still being negotiated.
The proposal includes $13 million for schools to purchase storage solutions for phones. While some students and parents express concerns about emergency access, the plan outlines procedures for parental contact during emergencies.
The New York State School Boards Association advocates for more local flexibility in smartphone policies. The budget, which also addresses funding for the Metropolitan Transit Authority and criminal discovery reform, is expected to be delayed beyond the deadline. Lawmakers will reconvene on Tuesday to address these issues.