Governor Hochul Visits United Way to Sign State Budget

Gov Hochul speaking to the audience at The Blake AnnexUnited Way Hosts Governor Hochul for Budget Signing

 

ALBANY, N.Y. — May 28, 2026 — United Way was honored to welcome New York State Governor Kathy Hochul to the Blake Annex as she highlighted key priorities included in New York State’s FY27 Budget aimed at making life more affordable for all families across the state.

During the visit, Governor Hochul outlined major investments focused on universal childcare, energy affordability, and economic relief for working families. The Governor’s budget includes expanded universal childcare funding, investments in food assistance programs, and tax relief measures designed to help hard-working families.

Gov. Hochul speaking at podium

Governor Hochul's budget priorities include:

  • Putting New York on Path to Statewide Universal Childcare
  • $1 Billion in One-Time Energy Rebate Checks
  • No Tax on Tips for Hardworking New Yorkers

Peter Ganon speaking at podium

United Way President and CEO, Peter Gannon

“At a time when families are feeling the pressure of rising costs for housing, childcare, groceries, and energy, Governor Kathy Hochul has made affordability a central focus of her administration. She has never lost sight of the everyday challenges facing working families across New York State and understands that strong communities are built when families have the opportunity not just to survive — but to thrive.”

Priorities that Support United Way's Born Thriving & Economic Opportunity Initiatives

Governor Hochul has prioritized families in the state, focusing on universal childcare, beginning with investments that will support the delivery of affordable childcare.

The Governor's landmark investment will increase funding by $1.7 billion. 

These investments will make funding available for more pre-K seats and support counties in building out New York’s First 3 Program, providing high-quality affordable childcare to families across the state, regardless of income.

Governor Hochul is also supporting Capital Region families struggling with utility costs. Her FY2027 Budget includes issuing one-time $1 billion Protecting Our Wallets Energy Rebate (POWER) checks to help provide needed relief. The POWER program will provide $200 to joint filers with incomes under $150,000 and $150 to joint filers with incomes between $150,000 and $300,000.

For individuals working jobs that demand long hours in the service industry, like bartenders and servers, Governor Hochul passed legislation that eliminates state income tax on up to $25,000 of tipped income in tax year 2026, consistent with federal tax guidance.

United Way’s mission to strengthen communities and improve lives closely aligns with many of the priorities highlighted during the Governor’s visit. Investments in childcare access, hunger prevention, and support for working families directly impact the health and stability of households in the Capital Region. United Way remains committed to working alongside state and community leaders to ensure every individual and family has access to the resources and opportunities they need to succeed.