Setting the Agenda 2016

For many organizations, advocates and interest groups, by the time the focus shifts to next year’s legislative agenda in Albany, the leaders will have already charted a new course. As the Boy Scouts motto goes, “Be prepared.”

So in that survivalist spirit, City & State is presenting its annual Setting the Agenda special section, an in-depth analysis of the most pressing issues that will be debated in Albany during the 2016 legislative session.

After a tumultuous session marked by corruption charges and convictions and unexpected transfers of power, we have reviewed what actually got done in a number of key sectors. We also look ahead to the coming session, which will feature funding fights and policy debates over everything from the minimum wage to medical malpractice to the MTA.

So be a good scout and read through the following articles. You’ll be ready to survive next year’s Albany adventure.

CONTENT:

THE TERRIBLE TWOS
2015 was a rough year for Flanagan and Heastie. 2016 could be even tougher.


LABOR

The fight for a $15 minimum wage across the state

The odds of seeing any Scaffold Law reforms next year

Economic equality in New York

Government action to raise minimum wage

Raise minimum wage for working men and women


EDUCATION

Issues like Common Core, teacher evaluations and school funding will test state lawmakers

Supporters urge Cuomo to include the Dream Act in the budget –and keep it there

De Blasio’s game-changing education plan

An education to-do list for New York

Higher learning standards are essential


ENERGY & ENVIRONMENT

Bills seek to crack down on toxins in everyday products

Lawmakers work together to produce cleaner energy in New York

Prioritize affordable energy in New York


HEALTHCARE

The debate over medical malpractice and the organ donor registry

The road to health care reform

The need for safe staffing levels in hospitals


ETHICS REFORM

Lawmakers are under pressure to curb corruption


TRANSPORTATION & INFRASTRUCTURE

Upstaters fear city’s transit woes will eclipse statewide needs

Expanding transportation in Brooklyn

Infrastructure priorities in the upcoming legislative session


CRIMINAL JUSTICE

Cuomo needs the Legislature’s stamp to make his temporary reforms permanent