April 15, 2026 · Updated April 17, 2026
On May 19, 2026, Long Island voters will decide school budgets across dozens of districts — and at least four are asking for a 60% supermajority to exceed the state tax levy cap. Here's how the cap works, which districts are seeking overrides, and your complete checklist before you vote.
On Tuesday, May 19, 2026, voters across Long Island will head to the polls to approve or reject their school district budgets. At least four districts are asking for a supermajority vote to exceed New York State's tax levy cap — meaning they need 60% voter approval, not just a simple majority.
New York State limits how much a school district can raise property taxes in a given year. The cap ties increases to the rate of inflation or 2%, whichever is lower. If a district wants to exceed that cap, they need a supermajority: at least 60% of voters saying yes.
Northport-East Northport is proposing a 2.26% tax levy increase — right at the maximum the state allows under the cap formula this year. That puts them at the cap limit, not over it, which means they only need a simple majority to pass.
The Port Washington school district adopted a $205.8 million budget on April 15. Voters will have their say on May 19.
Plainview-Old Bethpage is another district heading to voters on May 19.
Every year in New York, school districts hold their annual budget vote on the third Tuesday of May — that's May 19 this year. Polls are typically open from 7 AM to 9 PM. You vote on the budget itself, board of education seats, and other propositions.
If the budget fails, the district can put a revised, lower budget to voters in a second vote. Or, if the second vote also fails, the district operates on a contingency budget capped at the prior year's spending level with zero tax levy increase.
