$500 in Relief for New Yorkers, Hochul’s Holiday Promise
Governor Hochul Promises $500 Inflation Refund for New Yorkers during QCM visit
MOHAMED FARGHALY
mfarghaly@queensledger.com
New York Governor Kathy Hochul visited Queens Center Mall in Elmhurst on Dec 19, engaging with local residents as they shopped ahead of the holidays. The visit tagged along by Queens Borough President, Donovan Richards was part of a larger effort to promote her proposal for providing financial relief to New Yorkers grappling with the rising cost of living.
During her time at the local mall, Hochul met with shoppers and discussed her plan to offer direct financial assistance to state residents through her proposed “Inflation Reduction checks,” aimed at easing the strain of inflation on household budgets. The proposal has gained attention as part of the governor’s broader strategy to support everyday New Yorkers facing financial difficulties.
“I’ve been walking around for the last 20 minutes or so,” Hochul said, referring to her tour of the mall. “Took about 4,000 selfies, at least it seemed like that, but it’s a friendly place, and this is a beautiful, beautiful mall where investors engaged to make it lighter, safer, more inviting.”
Hochul’s visit came on the heels of a broader discussion about public safety in New York City, particularly regarding the subway system. She highlighted recent efforts to improve security and public safety, emphasizing the increased presence of law enforcement and National Guard members on the streets.
“This is an area where there’s a great sense of safety,” Hochul said. “I just came off the subway, and I want to thank our National Guard and 250 more joining the numbers we already have. The people on the trains I talked to, dozens of them, are really happy about the presence of police, the National Guard, it makes them feel safer.”
The governor also took the opportunity to champion her proposed economic relief package, designed to address the financial pressures faced by New Yorkers in the wake of inflation.
“Lastly, I’m here to talk about this, More money in the pockets of New Yorkers,” she said. “Making sure that I get support for putting into our plan a reduction act to make sure that we put money back in the pockets of those who pay too much for everything—sneakers, jewelry, toys, and their groceries.”
Hochul’s proposal, which she plans to include in her 2025 State of the State address, would provide a one-time, direct payment to New York taxpayers. The initiative is expected to direct approximately $3 billion to around 8.6 million residents statewide, using a surplus in sales tax revenue generated by inflation. This growth in revenue, which has exceeded historical averages in recent years, is largely attributed to rising prices across everyday goods.
Under the proposal, eligible New Yorkers would receive $500 if they are married or filing jointly with an annual income of less than $300,000, and $300 if they are single or head of household with an income of less than $150,000.
“I’m working with the legislature and have the support of our great Borough President, Don Richards who knows how important it is to help his constituents putting money back in your pockets.”
The governor’s plan has been designed to directly address the impact of inflation on New Yorkers who are already facing high costs for essentials such as food, transportation, and healthcare. Since taking office, Hochul has focused on delivering financial relief through various programs, including more than $5.5 billion in supplemental payments, tax relief, and rebates.
The initiative is part of a larger package of proposals that Hochul will present in her upcoming State of the State address. The aim is to provide immediate assistance to those most affected by the economic downturn caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“So next holiday season, let’s make sure you have over $500 more because of this plan,” she said.
With the holiday shopping season in full swing, Hochul’s visit to Queens Center Mall served as a reminder of the challenges facing many New Yorkers this year. As inflation continues to impact household budgets, the governor’s proposed Inflation Refund is being positioned as an important tool for addressing these financial struggles and providing relief for residents across the state.
Hochul’s proposal comes as the state faces mounting pressure to address affordability issues and the growing cost of living. With millions of New Yorkers still reeling from the economic impacts of the pandemic, the governor’s plan is seen as a step toward easing some of the burdens felt by everyday residents.
As the plan moves forward, attention will turn to the state legislature, where lawmakers will have to decide whether to approve the $3 billion Inflation Refund. If passed, the relief payments will go to New Yorkers in every corner of the state, with payments expected to be distributed starting in Fall 2025.
