Lawmakers’ Budget Priorities: Paid Leave, Tax Cut, Drug Help

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) — The New York state Assembly and Senate are backing competing budget proposals reflecting their chambers' priorities as legislative leaders and Governor Andrew Cuomo work to hammer out a state spending plan.

A plan endorsed by the Republican-led Senate yesterday includes $1.7 billion more for schools, along with tax cuts for small businesses and the middle class and $167 million to fight opioid addiction.

A proposal headed to a vote last night in the Democratic-led Assembly included a $2.1 billion increase in public education funding, the phase-in of a $15 minimum wage and higher taxes on millionaires.

Both chambers support a proposal to allow workers to take paid time off to care for a new child or sick loved one.

Lawmakers hope to pass a final state budget by April 1st.