Dear Neighbor,

I hope you all have a safe and enjoyable upcoming Memorial Day Weekend! 

As the weather warms up, there is plenty to do in and around the 29th Senate District! As Chair of the Committee on Cultural Affairs, Tourism, Parks and Recreation, I encourage you to get outside and visit New York’s parks, beaches, and trails. There are plenty of outdoor activities for individuals and their families, as well as cultural experiences throughout the city. 

In Albany, we have been hard at work finalizing our state budget. We have begun voting on budget bills, and I am very proud to report we have crafted a spending plan that helps address the many needs of our constituents. We secured funding for our schools and afterschool programs, our arts and cultural organizations, and our beloved parks! I appreciate all the input from our constituents throughout this process. Your suggestions and insights have helped guide the work I do in the legislature, and I’m grateful for your input. 

In the community report, you will find information on issues I have been working on, as well as events and happenings in the community. As always, my staff and I are here to help in any way that we can. Please feel free to contact us at 212-828-5829. 

Yours in Progress,

Senator José M. Serrano

Chair of the Majority Conference

Budget Extension Bill Debates

Senator Serrano continues to introduce and defend budget extender bills as negotiations on the FY2027 State Budget remain ongoing. These extender bills are essential to ensuring the uninterrupted operation of state government, including maintaining state payroll, Medicaid services, school funding, and other critical government functions while budget discussions continue.

As negotiations progress, Senator Serrano remains engaged in efforts with colleagues to advance a final budget that addresses the needs of communities across New York, including funding for housing, education, healthcare, public safety, the arts, and transportation.

Senate Committee on Cultural Affairs, Tourism, Parks, and Recreation Meeting

Senator Serrano recently chaired a meeting of the Senate Committee on Cultural Affairs, Tourism, Parks and Recreation to advance legislation related to parks and public access across New York State. Among the legislation reported by the committee was a bill to help increase access to state parks and historic sites for communities across New York State, as well as legislation allowing veterans to fish, free of charge, in our state parks. Senator Serrano appreciated the opportunity to continue supporting efforts that expand access to New York’s public resources.