NY's 2026 budget, $260B, boosts services without new taxes, using market gains and vaping taxes.

Governor Kathy Hochul unveiled a $260 billion New York state budget for 2026 without broad tax increases, relying instead on strong stock market gains and revenue from the state’s tobacco tax on vaping products. The plan includes significant funding boosts for children’s services, education, and housing, marking the highest budget in state history. Hochul emphasized fiscal responsibility while expanding key programs, avoiding new taxes despite rising spending demands.