New York households are to receive a small check this fall, courtesy of the state, to help in the battle against inflation.

One of the most significant lessons schools, governments and elected leaders were supposed to have learned from the COVID-19 pandemic revolved around the hazards that come with giving away cash. The first windfall allowed to happen in 2020 was in the form of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security — CARES — Act that distributed $2.2 trillion in an effort aimed at providing financial assistance to workers, families, small businesses and industries while the world shut down due to fears from the virus.

A year later, that colossal generosity was not enough. Federal leaders of the Democratic party put forth the American Rescue Plan Act that brought $350 billion to state, territorial, local and Tribal governments across the country to support their response to and recovery from the COVID-19 public health emergency.

Almost predictably, some of these taxpayer dollars were spent recklessly with no consideration for future costs. For instance, some entities used these funds to hire new employees — at a time when governments could have been downsizing.

Other spend-hardy mistakes around the nation, according to The New York Post, included a Wisconsin school district using $1.6 million to install synthetic turf. Communities in Michigan and North Carolina put down payments on pickleball courts. Palm Beach, Fla., dedicated $2 million to build a $16 million public golf course.

Locally, frivolous Common Council members in Dunkirk — the municipality currently facing a $20 million deficit — jumped in on the money mayhem to put $300,000 toward bonuses for themselves and the rest of the city staff in 2021. Three years later, that same legislative body had no idea it was short on cash and increased property taxes 84% on residents who have a median household income of $49,003.

So much for riding the gravy train.

To be fair, some local leaders have done a much better job of detailing how federal funds were distributed. In March, Chautauqua County put together a report titled “The Impact: Chautauqua County’s Use of Plan Act Funding.”

County Executive PJ Wendel noted the $24.6 million received was used to invest in 80 projects. “These initiatives span a wide range of categories, demonstrating our commitment to addressing diverse community needs,” he wrote in the report. “From infrastructure improvements to bolstering emergency services, public health, environmental conservation, parks, economic and workforce development, and public safety, every project reflects our dedication to improving the quality of life for our residents.”

Shortly after that $2.5 trillion was disbursed nationally, consequences began to appear in the economy in the form of declining participation in the workforce and higher prices. That led to one more bad idea from New York’s state capital in the recently approved budget.

Gov. Kathy Hochul announced last week that inflation refund checks up to $400 will be sent this fall to 8.2 million households across the state. Checks will be mailed directly to eligible New Yorkers through November.

“Starting in October, over 8 million New Yorkers will get an inflation refund because it’s simple — this is your money and we’re putting it back in your pockets,” Hochul said. “I’ll never stop fighting to help your family address the rising cost of living.”

Amounts will range from $150 to $400 based on tax returns and if filings were done either single or jointly. Overall, The New York Times reported the state will spend more than $2 billion on the effort.

Hearing comments from state leaders, you would think the $400 pittance is a magic bullet. “These checks will put money back into the pockets of New Yorkers, allowing them to save or spend in a way that makes sense for them,” said Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie. “This announcement is another step forward … to make the everyday lives of hardworking families easier and we will continue fighting for a future where no hardworking family has to worry about putting food on the table or keeping a roof over their heads.”

How out of touch are these politicians when it comes to the cost of living?

In the city of Dunkirk where a tax hike of 84% was levied, the $400 from the state is nowhere near enough to pay the new bill. Same for those in the village of Fredonia, which saw a 60% increase. Village of Lakewood residents, who endured a 22% tax hike, may break even.

Government has a proven record of doing an excellent job when it comes to taking money from its constituents in taxes and fees. It, however, does not exist to dole out stimulus, rebate or inflation checks.

That is what put the nation into this high-price mess in the first place. This is not a solution to get us out of the current predicament.

John D’Agostino is editor of The Post-Journal, OBSERVER and Times Observer. Send comments to jdagostino@observertoday.com or call 716-487-1111, ext. 453.