Governor Kathy Hochul has released New York’s 2027 Budget, a $260 billion proposal covering state spending from April 2026 through March 2027. The plan maintains steady income tax rates for residents while increasing funding for education and health care—key services that touch families, students, and local communities.
If you’re a parent, student, or depend on public health programs, knowing the details of NY’s 2027 Budget can help you anticipate changes in your day-to-day life.
Read the Full Budget Document Here
Education: Largest School Funding in History
The 2027 Budget proposes $39.3 billion in school aid—the most ever allotted by the state. The purpose is to bolster classroom instruction, expand pre-K opportunities, and make higher education more affordable.
Highlights in education funding:
1. Universal Pre-K: $1.6 billion to further early childhood education access across NY.
2. Free School Meals: $395 million to continue universal free meal programs for a second year.
3. Library Grants: $34 million designated for updating and constructing public libraries.
4. College & Community College Investments:
- $90 million to keep tuition unchanged at SUNY and CUNY four-year colleges.
- $12.5 million to expand tuition-free options at community colleges.
Impact: Expanded access to pre-K and free meals for families; lower costs for college students; and greater school support statewide.
Photo: Mike Groll/Office of Governor Kathy Hochul
Health Care: Prioritizing Access and Support
The 2027 Budget provides $38.2 billion to maintain health care services, including Medicaid, hospitals, and local programs.
Key health care allocations:
1. Safety Net Funding: $1 billion for hospitals and clinics serving low-income populations.
2. Hospital and Nursing Home Aid: $750 million to keep key facilities operating.
3. Targeted Funding:
- $80 million for reproductive health services.
- $17.5 million for youth mental health programs.
- $3.2 million for regional cardiac emergency initiatives.
Effect: New Yorkers on Medicaid or public health plans maintain access to services. Support for mental health, reproductive health, and emergency preparedness will also continue.
How NY’s 2027 Budget Supports Residents
Education: More Pre-K options, no-cost school meals, and help with college costs.
Health: Steady Medicaid and health funding to safeguard community well-being.
By protecting services without raising income taxes, the budget shows NY’s priority on its people.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will taxes increase? No, there are no new income taxes proposed.
How much for schools? $39.3 billion, a state record.
What’s provided for health care? $38.2 billion for Medicaid, mental health, hospitals, and emergencies.
When does it start? The 2027 budget cycle is from April 1, 2026, to March 31, 2027.
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