Since before the Obama administration ended, unemployment has been so low, at below 4 percent, it seemed anyone who wanted a job could get one. The coronavirus changed that, however, with figures jumping to more than 14 percent in April — its highest since the Great Depression. Millions are out of work, and even with financial help from the federal government, many still can’t pay bills — like rent. more

The hole in New York's state budget might be measured in billions, but lawmakers are hoping Gov. Andrew Cuomo will find a spare $100 million in Albany's couch cushions to cover late and missed rent payments by many low-income tenants since the start of the coronavirus pandemic. more

Upstate New York is enjoying what Gov. Andrew Cuomo calls the first phase of an extended statewide stay-at-home order — one that continues full force downstate until at least June 13. But New York City — and the Bronx, in particular — might not have to wait that long if it can meet the criteria of seven different metrics established by the state health department. more

State Sen. Alessandra Biaggi has worked her way through a second state budget. And while acknowledging this year was much different than any year in the state’s history because of the coronavirus pandemic, the senator is not happy with how the whole process works. more

Any New York employee who is ordered to stay home because of exposure to the coronavirus that causes COVID-19 will not have to worry about losing wages because of it. more

Two dozen state senators don't want to see people out on the street because of the coronavirus, signing a letter addressed to New York State Court of Appeals chief judge Janet DiFiore, asking her to place a moratorium on evictions until the COVID-19 crisis passes. more

Both the Assembly and senate passed Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s emergency plan to redirect $40 million into efforts to combat COVID-19, better known as coronavirus, but there was one lawmaker who was part of the distinct minority: state Sen. Gustavo Rivera. more