BNP Advocacy Insider – November 2022
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November 4, 2022
BNP Hosts Hochul, Zeldin
Through the BNP’s Gubernatorial Candidate Forum series, we welcomed Gov. Kathy Hochul and Rep. Lee Zeldin to our office for conversations about the issues facing our regional economy. We discussed many of the same issues with both candidates.
On economic development, Hochul touted victories like Micron, which will bring many jobs to central New York after being lured by state incentives. Zeldin offered a differing vision, advocating for lower taxes and simpler regulation to encourage business growth.
On climate policy, Gov. Hochul reaffirmed her support for pursuing ambitious climate goals. Rep. Zeldin expressed concern with the Climate Action Council’s recommendations and urged caution on pursuing “unrealistic” goals too quickly.
On unemployment insurance surcharges, Gov. Hochul said she is attempting to convince the federal government to forgive state debt, but said the employer surcharges were “not that much.” Rep. Zeldin said the state bears responsibility for paying this debt and should not place the burden on employers.
The BNP thanks both candidates for their participation in our series.
BNP Releases Voter Guide
For the first time, the BNP has compiled a voter guide featuring state and federal races. In the guide, candidates explain in their own words where they stand on the issues facing our economy. The BNP does not make endorsements, but we encourage you to utilize the voter guide as you prepare to vote on Tuesday.
View the guide here.
BNP’s Gallagher: Climate Policy Must Be Realistic, Responsible
As the Climate Action Council finalizes its Scoping Plan, the BNP has led the charge in calling for affordable, reliable energy. BNP President and CEO Dottie Gallagher recently penned an op-ed in The Buffalo News explaining principles state leaders should employ when crafting climate policy. Read her piece here.
Small Business Tax Credits Available for Covid Costs
For businesses with less than 100 employees, a new tax credit is available to help cover capital costs associated with COVID-19. Credits will be distributed on a first-come-first-served basis, so interested businesses should apply as soon as possible. Learn more on our blog.
NY Business Climate at Bottom of Barrel, Again
The Tax Foundation recently released its annual State Business Tax Climate Index report. New York ranked 49th, meaning it has the second worst business tax climate in the nation. This dismal outlook is not new: New York has fluctuated between 48th-50th in this report each year since 2014. The BNP continues to urge state leaders to reverse this trend. Read the report here.
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Advocacy Alert: State Legislature Ends Session
The New York State Legislature gaveled out for the final time of the 2023 legislative session. Although a special session is possible before the end of the year, no major legislative push is expected.
Although much of the most impactful legislation being debated was tabled until next year, many important bills were passed in the waning days of session.
Advocacy Alert: End of Session: What We’re Watching
All eyes are on Albany as the Legislature enters the final two weeks of the 2023 legislative session. Amid the hundreds of bills that will pass in the coming days, the BNP is keeping an eye on the following issues:
Advocacy Alert: NYS Budget
State lawmakers recently approved the 2023 state budget. In total, the budget will spend $229 billion – a record amount and a 33% increase in spending since 2019.