New York Lawmakers Stare Down AI Threats, $4 Billion Budget Gap

New York lawmakers will begin their 2024 session Wednesday with top issues ranging from artificial intelligence to taxes—with success on those topics hinging on relations with Gov. Kathy Hochul.

A projected $4.3 billion deficit looms as Hochul and the legislature confront broader challenges in a state with the second largest budget in the country. The 2024 session, ending in June, will also test the balance of power between Hochul and the more left-leaning Democratic-controlled legislature following a series of clashes last year on matters like banning noncompete clauses.

The biggest policy decisions traditionally happen in the budget process that begins ...