New York State Budget Update: Momentum is Building, But We Must Keep the Pressure On

State Budget Update: Momentum is Building, But We Must Keep the Pressure On

The State Senate and Assembly have officially released their “one-house” budget resolutions. These bills outline the Legislature’s priorities in response to the Governor’s Executive Budget and serve as their starting point as final three-way budget negotiations begin. Thanks to RPEA’s relentless advocacy, we have seen significant progress on our priorities. 

Here is where our top priorities stand as we enter final negotiations:

• IRMAA Cut Omitted: The Governor’s proposal to eliminate Medicare IRMAA reimbursement was omitted from both the Senate and Assembly bills.
• Skilled Nursing Access: The Senate included language (Part UU) to protect retirees entering skilled nursing care from benefit reductions when they become Medicare-eligible.
• Pension Earnings Cap Raised: The Senate bill includes an amendment (Part TT) to increase the pension earnings limit to $50,000 for returning public employees.
• COLA Update: Unfortunately, there was no movement on a retiree COLA. We are currently building a broader coalition to fight for inflation relief.

Our Advocacy Cannot Stop Now These one-house bills are just the starting point. The Governor will likely push back during final budget negotiations, meaning our work is far from over. We need every member to stay engaged and demand that the final state budget protects IRMAA, secures skilled nursing benefits, and raises the earnings cap!

Take Action Today:

• Download the 2026 Budget Talking Points by clicking here.
• Download the Advocacy Letter Template by clicking here.
• Find your Assemblymember by clicking here.
• Find your NYS Senator by clicking here.