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The New York State Senate passed a sweeping $229 billion budget bill on May 1 that expands tax credits for film and Broadway productions while implementing controversial changes to wind and solar property assessments. The bill passed 38-24 on a largely party-line vote, with 24 Republicans and some Democrats opposing the measure. The legislation increases the film tax credit from $420 million to $700 million and adds $100 million over two years for Broadway productions, now including off-Broadway theaters with budgets of at least $750,000. The bill also extends a corporate tax surcharge expected to raise $810 million in fiscal 2024-25, with revenue directed to the state's general fund. A contentious provision eliminates the requirement that wind and solar property assessments follow the State Administrative Procedures Act, instead allowing the Department of Tax and Finance and NYSERDA to establish assessment methodologies. Opponents, led by Sen. Walczyk, argued the change strips local control and threatens school district revenues in upstate communities with existing payment-in-lieu-of-taxes agreements. The bill includes $455 million in state financing for a three-year Belmont Park renovation project, structured as a 20-year loan at 1.8 percent fixed interest. Supporters highlighted job creation and economic development benefits. An amendment by Sen. Weik to expand the Empire State child tax credit to include children under age 4 was ruled nongermane and defeated. The Senate rejected an appeal of the ruling 21-41. The bill also includes provisions addressing senior tax relief, MTA funding mechanisms, and modifications to the Concealed Carry Improvement Act.