State Politics

New York Attorney General Letitia James announced that a federal judge has approved her request for a preliminary injunction. This blocks the Trump administration from ending federal funding for school-based mental health programs. James stated that every student deserves access to mental health care, emphasizing the importance of these programs for students' well-being. In July, she and 15 other attorneys general filed a lawsuit against the U. S. Department of Education to protect funding for two vital grant programs created after school shootings like those in Parkland and Uvalde. The court's ruling ensures that New York's universities and school districts can continue to access over $7.6 million for mental health services.

“Every student deserves access to mental health care, no matter who they are or where they live. This order is a victory for our young people, and for every educator working to keep our schools safe and supportive. There…

A grand jury in Virginia indicted New York Attorney General Letitia (Tish) James on charges of bank fraud and making false statements to a financial institution related to a mortgage she obtained in 2020. The Trump-appointed judge had reinvigorated the case after a 5-month investigation led by the previous judge found no evidence that James had made false statements related to a different home purchase in Virginia. James said,

https://www.timesunion.com/state/article/ny-attorney-general-letitia-james-indicted-21093228.php?utm_source=capconstack&utm_medium=email

Governor Kathy Hochul will soon call a special election to fill the North Country Assembly seat vacated by Billy Jones, who is leaving for a job at Clinton Community College. Republicans have nominated State Police Troop B Commander Brent Davison, despite Rep. Elise Stefanik’s push for Malone Mayor Andrea Dumas, while Democrats selected Michael Cashman, mayor of the town of Plattsburgh. The race will pit Davison against Cashman, both chosen by their party chairs rather than through a primary, as required in special elections.

New York Attorney General Letitia James announced a settlement requiring MVP Health Plan to ensure the accuracy of its mental health provider directory and network, and to provide restitution to members harmed by inaccurate listings. This comes after an investigation that revealed many providers listed as accepting new patients were unreachable, leaving members without needed care or forcing them to pay out-of-pocket. Under the agreement, MVP must strengthen oversight, guarantee accurate provider information, and deliver financial relief to impacted New Yorkers. Read more here.