The Associated Press is reporting New York has adopted its third straight on-time budget. Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo and legislative leaders said the accomplishment demonstrates how well state government now functions. The $135 billion budget holds spending increases to less than 2 percent for the third consecutive time, without hikes in taxes or fees. The Assembly gave final legislative approval to the budget late Thurs., Mar. 28, and the Senate approved its bills early Wed., Mar. 28. The budget was not due until Sunday, the start of the new fiscal year. Major elements include nearly $1 billion more for schools, and a $350 tax rebate for most middle class families. The minimum wage will rise to $9 over three years, and employers of teenagers in part-time jobs will get a taxpayer-paid subsidy to cover most of the increase. Businesses will get additional tax breaks, including one to encourage the hiring of recent veterans. Read the full Associated Press story in the Daily Freeman.