During a press conference unrelated to Buffalo’s fiscal situation, Mayor Sean Ryan confirmed that he’ll be proposing a 25% tax increase in his 2026-2027 budget.While it’s not a surprise that Ryan is planning on raising taxes, administration officials previously indicated that the increase could be at least 15%.
A new law will require stores in New York State to allow customers to pay in cash. The new law, which makes it illegal for a New York food store or retail shop to refuse payment in cash for goods, goes into effect March 21, 2026
Attorney General Letitia James said in a news release. “Businesses cannot deny New Yorkers access to necessities like food and clothing by refusing to take cash or charging shoppers more for paying in cash. I will not hesitate to enforce this law to protect consumers across our state.” Violations can result in civil penalties of up to $1,000 for a first offense and $1,500 for each subsequent violation.