With no state budget deal, New York school districts wrangle with uncertainty with local budget votes looming

ALBANY- New York school districts are supposed to have next-year’s budgets voted on by May 19, but with still no state budget deal confirmed yet in the legislature, officials are concerned about some degree of uncertainty.

State lawmakers, including Assemblyman Scott Gray, say schools are in an awkward spot without a state budget, because that means their state funding remains unaccounted for.

In addition, school districts also have to address any increased costs, which ultimately can impact the taxpayers.

In addition, Assemblyman Gray also pointed out the state’s electric bus mandate, which will require all New York schools to have completely electric bus fleets come 2035.

Gray and other North Country lawmakers hope for some significant form of modification or delay for the school bus mandate.

New York State Capitol image.