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 Monday 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 Monday night in the Democratic-led Assembly includes 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 take care for a new child or sick loved one.
Lawmakers hope to pass a final state budget by April 1.
