ALBANY, New York — The biggest priority for environmental advocates on climate appears to be dropping out of budget talks as discussions continue following Gov. Kathy Hochul’s announcement of a tentative deal.
Components of a measure dubbed “NY HEAT” that would limit subsidies for new gas hookups and vastly expand the ability of the state’s utility regulator to plan for a downsizing of the natural gas system are unlikely to make it into a final deal, according to two officials familiar with the discussions who spoke on the condition of anonymity because negotiations are continuing.
But Democratic lawmakers have successfully fought to restore cuts proposed by Hochul to flagship environmental programs, including for water infrastructure.
Here’s a look at what’s in and out on environmental and energy issues for the budget deal:
