New York State lawmakers have approved a seventh budget extender, allowing the state to continue paying its bills as negotiations for the overdue budget persist. The budget, originally due on April 1, is now more than three weeks late. Lawmakers were back at the Capitol on Tuesday (April 22) to pass the extender, ensuring government operations continue while discussions continue.

Governor Kathy Hochul has been holding up the budget over several non-fiscal policy priorities, including a ban on cell phones in schools, changes to discovery laws, and adjustments to involuntary commitment rules. A recent Siena College poll indicates that 72% of New Yorkers are concerned about the budget delay, although many support Hochul's priorities. The poll shows strong support for the cell phone ban, with 61% in favor, and a plurality backing changes to discovery laws and involuntary commitment rules.

Despite the delays, the legislature is not in session today but plans to reconvene tomorrow. Even if an agreement is reached this week, budget bills are unlikely to be printed and voted on until next week. Senator Bill Weber anticipates that an eighth budget extender will be necessary early next week, as reported by NEWS10 ABC.

The ongoing negotiations have sparked debate among lawmakers, with some jokingly comparing the budget process to waiting for "white smoke from the Vatican." As the state awaits a final agreement, the latest extender includes funding for schools and a $13 million transfer related to the congestion pricing program, according to Capitol Confidential.

Christa Cooper