Governor Kathy Hochul has pledged to support the expansion of New York City's universal childcare initiative, which will provide 10,000 additional free seats for 2-year-olds by fall 2027. This initiative is part of Mayor Zohran Mamdani's plan to make childcare free for children from six weeks to age 5. However, funding for the program's long-term expansion may lead to budget negotiations, particularly as Mamdani faces a significant city budget gap and seeks new revenue sources.
Key facts
- Governor Hochul supports adding 10,000 free childcare seats by fall 2027.
- The initiative builds on a $1.2 billion state investment for the city's 2-K program.
- Mamdani aims to make childcare free for children from six weeks to age 5.
- The expansion may lead to budget negotiations over funding sources.
- Hochul is facing reelection against Bruce Blakeman in November.
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