Some New York Democrats Slam Inflation Refund Checks as a “Gimmick”
This fall, more than 8 million New Yorkers are set to receive one-time direct payments of up to $400. Governor Kathy Hochul is calling them “inflation refund” checks because the state collected more sales tax than expected, thanks to higher prices caused by inflation. Basically, the state is giving back some of that extra cash it collected from shoppers.
Support and Skepticism Among Democrats
Most Democrats in New York have backed the payments as a helpful way to ease the pinch of rising living costs. But not everyone’s convinced. State Senator James Skoufis is openly critical, calling the checks a political stunt, a “gimmick” designed to make the governor look good ahead of her reelection campaign.
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Skoufis even introduced legislation to block Hochul from putting her name, photo, or signature on the checks, similar to how President Trump’s name appeared on the 2020 stimulus payments. Hochul’s team insists her signature won’t be on these checks, aiming to avoid the same kind of backlash.
Who Qualifies and How Much Will You Get?
About $2 billion in checks will go out in October and November to New Yorkers who filed a 2023 income tax return. Here’s the breakdown:
• Individuals making less than $75,000 get $200
• Those making between $75,000 and $150,000 get $150
• Families making less than $150,000 receive $400
• Families earning between $150,000 and $300,000 get $300
No age limits here, but if you didn’t file taxes, make more than those amounts, or are claimed as a dependent, you’re out of luck.
Governor Hochul’s Message: “This Is Your Money”
Hochul stresses these payments are putting money back in people’s pockets to help with the rising cost of living. She also highlights her efforts to cut middle-class taxes, expand the child tax credit, and provide free school meals to all students.
Concerns About the Bigger Budget Picture
Not all Democrats are on board with how the budget is shaping up. Senator Pat Fahy of Albany worries about relying heavily on federal aid. Tens of billions of dollars that could be cut anytime, especially with current political tensions and tariff impacts on New York’s economy.
She says, “We have to be careful with our limited resources and avoid handing out money to high earners who may not need it.” Fahy’s point is a reminder that while the refunds are welcome, the state budget has some serious challenges ahead.
So, while many New Yorkers will get a little boost this fall, some voices in the Democratic Party are sounding alarms about whether this inflation refund is truly helpful or just a political play.