CSS Statement on FY 2026 State Budget
The Community Service Society of New York (CSS) applauds the enactment of the New York State FY26 budget and recognizes the extensive efforts undertaken by the Governor and Legislature to finalize a plan that addresses numerous areas that are critical to the needs of low-income New Yorkers.
We are particularly gratified for the investment policymakers have made in the Community Health Advocates (CHA) program, which plays a critical role in empowering New Yorkers to access the health coverage and care they need. CHA has consistently delivered impactful results, helping tens of thousands of individuals resolve medical billing issues, appeal insurance denials, and better understand their healthcare options. In the face of proposed federal cuts to coverage and care, as well as the rising cost of care and complexity of our healthcare system, this commitment will help ensure that New Yorkers can receive the guidance and support they need to overcome barriers to care.
We would also like to thank state lawmakers for including $3.250 million for the Education Debt Consumer Assistance Program (EDCAP); $3 million for the Community Health Access to Addiction and Mental Healthcare Project (CHAMP); and $300,000 for the Next Door Project. These programs are essential to ensuring that individuals and families have access to the resources, advocacy, and support they need to navigate complex systems.
The enacted budget also provides some relief to New Yorkers facing housing insecurity. It includes $225 million for NYCHA capital improvements, including $25 million for vacant units, and $75 million for housing authorities outside NYC. While a step forward, this falls far short of the $1 billion plan backed by the Assembly, residents, and advocates. With the Trump Administration’s “Skinny Budget” signaling further threats to public housing, the allocation does not adequately address the needs of NYCHA residents.
The new $100 million mixed-income revolving loan fund takes inspiration from successful social housing models. Yet, it lacks critical safeguards. Passed without public legislation or guidelines, it currently omits protections for long-term affordability, worker wages, and resident control—key elements of effective social housing.
The investment of $50 million a year for the Housing Access Voucher Program is an important step in the right direction, but it also falls far short of addressing the scale of New York’s housing crisis. With thousands of households struggling with rent burdens, evictions, and homelessness, this level of funding is insufficient to fully address the scope of housing insecurity across the state. We hope next year’s budget includes funding that adequately reflects the scale of the crisis.
Perhaps one of the most consequential improvements in the budget is the expansion of the state Child Tax Credit. CSS, along with other members of the Child Poverty Reduction Advisory Council, welcomes the elimination of the minimum income phase-in requirements, which excluded many families with the lowest incomes from receiving the credit. The budget also increases the credit amount—from $330 to $1,000 -- for children under age four and to $500 for children age 4 to 16. We hope these provisions, currently expected to sunset in 2028, will be made permanent.
Finally, we applaud the Governor for funding free, universal school meals across the state. Food insecurity affects 22 percent of all New Yorkers and 27 percent of households with children. This investment will not only help address food hardships among students but also support long-term outcomes by ensuring all children have consistent access to nutritious meals.
CSS remains committed to advocating for policies that advance equity, economic security, and access to opportunity for all. We will continue to work alongside state leaders, community organizations, and residents to build a more just and inclusive New York.