A State Supreme Court judge in Albany has ruled the new state ethics board’s investigatory and enforcement powers are unconstitutional. Judge Thomas Marcelle determined that the commission was formed and assigned enforcement powers in violation of … [Read more...]
Gov. Hochul Appoints Blake Washington as New Budget Director
Governor Kathy Hochul has appointed Blake Washington as the state's new Budget Director. Washington will begin his tenure this summer. Washington replaces Robert Megna, who was serving as interim Budget Director following the departure of Robert … [Read more...]
Drug Pricing Program That’s Set to End Could Affect Local Healthcare Centers in the Millions of Dollars
A prescription drug program that's set to sunset could affect local healthcare facilities, including The Chautauqua Center and Evergreen Health Services, to the tune of millions of dollars. TCC CEO Mike Pease said through the 340b program, TCC has … [Read more...]
Robert Megna Returns as NYS Budget Director
A familiar face has returned as New York State Budget Director. Governor Kathy Hochul announced Robert Megna has been appointed as the State Budget Director. He previously served as Budget Director under Governors David Paterson and Andrew … [Read more...]
County Legislature Urging NYS To Release Funds to Construct Brooks Memorial Hospital
The Chautauqua County Legislature is urging New York State to release funds to help get a new Brooks Memorial Hospital constructed. The Legislature unanimously passed a motion requesting Governor Kathy Hochul release the $74 million toward the … [Read more...]
Chautauqua County Could Face $4.3 Million Budget Hit in NYS Budget
Chautauqua County Government could be hit with a $4.3 million shortfall this year should New York State move forward with clawing back Medicaid funds. The Enhanced Federal Medical Assistance Program (E-FMAP) funds are monies from the federal … [Read more...]
Gov. Hochul Presents $227 Billion State Budget
Governor Kathy Hochul has unveiled her $227 billion state budget for 2024-25. This budget is $5 billion more than the current year, with a 2.4% increase in all spending. Hochul said public safety is her top priority, budgeting $337 … [Read more...]
Kathy Hochul Sworn In as New York State’s First Elected Female Governor
Kathy Hochul was inaugurated Sunday as New York State's first elected female governor. Hochul took office in August 2021 after then-Governor Andrew Cuomo resigned amid allegations of sexual harassment and inappropriate behavior. She was elected … [Read more...]
JPS Superintendent Criticizes NYS For Dragging Feet on Resolving Small Cities Lawsuit
Jamestown Public Schools' Superintendent is accusing New York State of dragging its feet in resolving a lawsuit over the state under funding poor school districts. Dr. Kevin Whitaker said the state is trying to "smoke out" the remaining eight … [Read more...]
NYS Health Commission Announces Resignation
New York State Health Commissioner Dr. Mary Bassett has announced she will resign on January 1. In a statement, Bassett said she plans to return to the Harvard Chan School of Public Health. Bassett, a former New York City health commissioner, … [Read more...]
