News in New York – Chief Judge, Assembly Maps, Sustainability Plan, Budget Update

Rowan Wilson Confirmed as Chief Judge

Judge Rowan Wilson was confirmed as Chief Judge of the New York State Court of Appeals last Tuesday. Wilson is now the first Black judge to hold this position, and was approved by a 40-19 vote. Additionally, Caitlin Halligan has been confirmed as a new Associate Judge on the Court of Appeals, taking Wilson’s place. Halligan is expected to be a left-leaning swing vote on the new Court.

Redistricting Commission Submits New Assembly Maps

New York’s Independent Redistricting Commission voted to advance a new draft map of the state Assembly districts. Following a series of public hearings, the new map contains minor changes to the one used for the 2022 Assembly elections. The legislature must now approve these maps, which will be used for the 2024 elections.

Mayor’s Sustainability Plan

Mayor Adams released “PlaNYC: Getting Sustainability Done,” NYC’s new strategic climate plan. As part of the new plan, the City will launch a program subsidizing the installation of solar panels for up to 3,000 homes of low-income New Yorkers. The mayor will also be taking carbon emissions targets into account as part of the budget process.

State Budget Update

The New York State budget is now over three weeks past its deadline of April 1. Governor Hochul and legislative leaders have come to an agreement on bail reform, and judges will now have greater discretion in setting bail for violent felony cases. The Governor’s proposed housing plan has also reportedly been fully removed from the budget.