Blog

On January 9, our signature Government Affairs event unveiled the strategies and priorities that will guide our work this year with policymakers.

We were thrilled to convene our members with politicians including Mayor Christopher Scanlon, County Executive Mark Poloncarz, Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes, Assembly Member Bill Conrad, Assembly Member Patrick Chludzinsk, Senator Rob Ortt, Senator Sean Ryan, Senator George Borrello, and Senator Pat Gallivan.

The federal government’s investment into our regional technology hub presents a major opportunity for our region. However, sound economic policymaking is needed at all levels of government to leverage this opportunity into results: well-paying jobs, economic growth, and heightened investment in our region.

A video highlighting our 2025 Advocacy Agenda was presented to the crowd. Here’s some key takeaways where our efforts are focused this year:

• Position the region for growth with support for the NY SMART I-Corridor, Empire AI, and FAST NY Shovel Ready grant program
• Reduce government burden by pursuing tax reform, enacting reasonable insurance requirements, and providing pay frequency clarity
• Address ports of entry staffing, low-income housing, and MWBE programs
• Grow our talent pool and expand access to education, public transit, immigration reform, and childcare
• Respond to climate change with practical solutions

“The BNP Advocacy Agenda contains a comprehensive perspective of what our leaders in government need to do as well as a private sector perspective on policies that can work against this progress”, said BNP President and CEO Dottie Gallagher in attendance. “Our agenda is the private sector’s blueprint on how to advance the economy and the economic fortunes of all of our residents. This is why the BNP exists, to strengthen the regional economy by connecting and mobilizing the region’s employers.”

Download a copy of the 2025 Advocacy Agenda here to read all about our upcoming regional efforts.