Federal Changes May Threaten NY's School Meal Program
As of May 2026, more than 1.9 million New York students participated in the school lunch program, the third most in the nation, according to a report by Comptroller DiNapoli. However, recent federal changes enacted under H.R. 1 (Public Law 119-21) in 2025 restrict eligibility to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and Medicaid in a way that could threaten federal support for the state’s universal school meals program, decrease the number of students receiving support and increase state costs. Hunger should never prevent children from learning in school. The universal school meal program is a great success in New York, but it depends on continued partnership between the state and the federal government.
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State Tax Receipts Exceed Projections Through Mid-Year
State tax receipts totaled $68.5 billion through the middle of State Fiscal Year 2026-27, $7.3 billion higher than estimates by the Division of the Budget. State tax collections were also $8.6 billion higher than those through September 2025, according to the monthly State Cash Report released by Comptroller DiNapoli.
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Fire District Audits Find Room for Improvement
Fire Districts provide essential services our communities depend on. Comptroller DiNapoli released a report summarizing the results from a series of 20 fire district follow-up reviews primarily related to financial oversight. The report highlights opportunities for fire districts to strengthen oversight, safeguard public funds, and build public trust by addressing the issues identified in these audits and fully implementing their recommendations.
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Gaps Remain in Preschool Special Education Services
A follow-up report by Comptroller DiNapoli found that the State Education Department has made some progress addressing problems that left children with disabilities waiting for required preschool special education services or not receiving them at all. The original audit found that provider shortages and waitlists prevented some children from receiving services on time. Of seven recommendations, three have been implemented and four have been partially implemented.
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State Improves Tracking of Computers and Equipment
A follow-up report by Comptroller DiNapoli found that the Office of Information Technology Services (ITS) has implemented all eight recommendations from a 2025 audit that uncovered problems tracking state-owned computers and other equipment. The original audit found inaccurate inventory records, missing devices and security weaknesses. Auditors also identified 924 usable computers, valued at an estimated $530,000 to $660,000, that had been designated for destruction rather than donation or sale.
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ALSO IN THE NEWS
- NYC’s costly special education system is imperiling Mamdani’s ambitious agenda
- New York school lunch participation reaches 1.9 million as state expands meal funding
- New York tax receipts exceed midyear projections by $7.3 billion
- Bridgehampton Home Healthcare Aide Arrested for Healthcare Fraud
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