New York Governor Kathy Hochul and state lawmakers have finalized a $254 billion budget deal, which includes measures aimed at providing financial relief to residents and implementing a controversial cell phone ban in schools. The budget allocates funds for inflation refund checks of up to $400 for millions of New Yorkers, along with tax cuts for families affected by rising costs. Additionally, the agreement expands free school lunch programs and includes provisions for housing vouchers. While Hochul celebrates significant wins in the budget, reactions remain mixed, particularly regarding the cell phone ban, which has garnered support and concern among various school districts. As lawmakers prepare to implement these changes, the focus will now shift to the challenges ahead in balancing state needs with political aspirations.