ALBANY, NY — New York State Gov. Kathy Hochul has included in her executive budget $8.1 million for senior services in the mid-Hudson region (which includes Sullivan County), and $4.2 million in the Southern Tier (which includes Delaware County).

“Older adults bring enormous economic and social value to their families, their communities, and the economy,” said Office for the Aging (OFA) director Greg Olsen. “This budget provides critical supports to help older New Yorkers age in their communities of choice and support those who care for them with direct services.”

According to the Office for the Aging, individuals over age 50:

• Represent 36 percent of the state’s population and contribute 43 percent ($719 billion) to the state’s gross domestic product. Spending by this population supports almost six million jobs.
• Generate $482 billion in wages and salary.
• Contribute $72 billion (41 percent) in state and local taxes.
• Older adults’ pension and Social Security income infuse $99.5 billion into New York’s economy. Individuals aged 55 and older also have high rates of volunteerism, generating an economic value of $13.2 billion annually. 

The added funding, according to an OFA press release, provides $45 million for older New Yorkers awaiting services (also known as “unmet need”). This brings total funding to $68 million in FY26, up from $33 million last year. 

If the budget passes, millions would come to the mid-Hudson and Southern Tier regions, but more information on how it would be distributed was not available.

The proposed budget also includes:

• $6.19 million for the Long Term Care Ombudsman Program (LTCOP), maintaining last year’s funding increases. LTCOP serves as an advocate for residents and their families in nursing homes and other facilities.
• Middle-class tax cuts for joint filers up to $323,000 per year.
• Inflation rebates of $300 to single taxpayers who make up to $150,000 per year, and $500 for joint tax filers making up to $300,000 per year.
• Expansion of the Child Tax Credit to include grandparents supporting grandchildren.
• Grant programs to enhance community centers for promoting physical health, mental well-being, and community connections for people of all ages.

The Office for the Aging lists more provisions for New Yorkers at www.aging.ny.gov/news/governor-hochuls-budget-advances-historic-investments-nysofa-services-prioritizes-vital.