New York Gov. Kathy Hochul Has a Refund Plan. Over 8 Million State Households Will See State-Issued Checks of Up to $500 This Fall.

Because of Trump's Tarriffs which raised prices on everything from food to clothing to cars, New York state received a windfall in sales taxes from the higher prices paid by consumers. Hochul is giving that money back.

It's something the other 49 state governors should be doing, too.

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samueltyler2 · 80-89, M

I never figured the sales tax increase was added to the tariffs. Amazing how the lower end of the economic tree is getting clobbered.

Can you imagine what will happen if the unexpected decision comes down that the tariffs are unconstitutional and money has to be returned?

Thinkerbell · 41-45, F

What will the NY State Comptroller say about that?

NY is already seriously in the hole.

"DiNapoli: State Faces $34.3 Billion Cumulative Budget Gap Through State Fiscal Year 2029"

https://www.osc.ny.gov/press/releases/2025/08/dinapoli-state-faces-343-billion-cumulative-budget-gap-through-state-fiscal-year-2029

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Thinkerbell · 41-45, F

@beckyromero

NY, one of the most heavily-taxed states in the Union (especially property taxes), has never had qualms about collecting taxes beyond all reasonable measure.

More likely, these Hochul refund checks, if they ever materialize at all, will appear about a month before the 2026 midterm elections.

beckyromero · 36-40, F

@Thinkerbell

More likely, these Hochul refund checks, if they ever materialize at all, will appear about a month before the 2026 midterm elections.

Great idea! That would be perfect timing! Maybe take a page out of Trump's book. Make a big to-do out of it, perhaps film a "public service" annoucement and have her signature on the checks - you know, like Trump did with the $1,200 stimulus check during Covid before the 2000 election.

Thinkerbell · 41-45, F

@beckyromero

And Trump didn't invent that political ploy either;
it's as old as gerrymandering. 🙄

My parents tell me that increases in Social Security payments are made just before elections, while off-years generally see nothing.

MarmeeMarch · M

ooooh - imagine the fun the unwashed masses will have at the big box stores.

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