An alternative to the yellow school bus?

Inside the head of Gov. Kathy Hochul

June 15, 2026 - In an excerpt from an upcoming Dispatches from Planet Albany conversation, Politico New York Albany Bureau Chief Nick Reisman shares insights he gleaned from a one-on-one interview with Gov. Kathy Hochul.

State reports examines afterschool care landscape

June 15, 2026- New York State Office of Children and Family Services Commissioner DaMia Harris-Madden reflects on an overdue state report examining the afterschool care landscape in the Empire State, including what universal access might cost.

Troopers secure paid time to process violent incidents

June 12, 2026- New York State Troopers PBA President Charles Murphy discusses language in the budget ensuring state police members can get paid time off when they're involved in the use of force that kills or seriously injures someone.

Structural problems underlie behavioral health services delays

June 11, 2026 - A new report from InUnity Alliance highlights the long delays for New Yorkers in need of community-based services for mental health and substance abuse disorders. We explore the underlying problems and how to address them with Jihoon Kim, the organization's president and CEO.

Data centers in bullseye of New York policy debates

June 10, 2026- Times Union Investigative Reporter Ezra Bitterman talks about the future development of data centers in New York, including concerns about their energy consumption, debates over their economic value and legislation imposing a one-year moratorium.