Author Archive

Rebecca C. Lewis

is the senior state politics reporter at City & State New York.

Energy & Environment

Policy

So… what ever happened to setting up safer basement apartments in New York?

Legislation to legalize and regulate underground dwellings stalled in the Legislature during session.

News & Politics

Politics

Women who accused Cuomo of harassment fight subpoenas from his legal team

Years after they came forward, legal battles continue as the governor’s lawyers seek depositions and even years of phone records.

Campaigns & Elections

Politics

Taylor Darling announces state Senate bid

The Long Island Assembly Member is looking to replace state Sen. Kevin Thomas, who is running for Congress.

Heard Around Town

Policy

Cruz still plans to push for state-level work permits for asylum-seekers

The Queens Assembly member said the law is needed for people from places other than Venezuela.

Albany Agenda

Policy

The bills still awaiting Kathy Hochul’s signature before the end of the year

The Legislature passed hundreds of bills before breaking in June. Many high–profile ones like Clean Slate and a bill to create a reparations task force have yet to be signed.

Immigration

Politics

After meeting with Biden, Hochul touts TPS as a win

The governor initially distanced herself from the issue of asylum-seekers in New York City, but she’s taking credit for getting the feds to act.

Workforce

Policy

Hochul doesn’t talk state work permits with Biden

But state Senate lawyers are currently analyzing new legislation that would supersede the federal government

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Heard Around Town

Policy

Free buses start on Sunday

A pilot program to test the feasibility of fareless buses is set to start Sept. 24.

Campaigns & Elections

Politics

New policy group spends big on D’Esposito attack ads

Formed in February, Empire State Voices has targeted several New York Republicans in swing districts – and it’s not clear who’s funding them.

Immigration

Policy

New York looks at options for state work authorization for asylum-seekers

Lawmakers including Catalina Cruz and Jenifer Rajkumar have introduced bills. Gov. Kathy Hochul said she’s considering “possible language.”

Heard Around Town

Politics

GOP candidate claims Democrats ‘playing dirty’ after rabbi pulls endorsement

Republican candidate for the 27th Assembly District David Hirsch claimed a rabbi was intimidated into rescinding his support.

Heard Around Town

Personality

Lou Coletti joins Davidoff, Hutcher & Citron

The former Building Trades Employers’ Association president is the latest notable hire for the government relations firm.

Cannabis

Policy

Crackdown on loophole allowing some stores to sell THC products draws complaints

The hemp cannabinoid industry fired back that new regulations approved by the Office of Cannabis Management are causing more harm than good to small businesses.

2024 New York congressional battleground

Politics

Who’s running against Anthony D’Esposito in NY-4?

A current state senator and a former Olympic figure skater are among those looking to unseat the Republican incumbent in this purple district on Long Island.