In the news: COO Grant Loomis discusses proposed 2026 New York State fiscal budget
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The Partnership
February 2, 2026
Buffalo Niagara Partnership President & COO Grant Loomis joined Spectrum News 1 "In Focus" to spotlight New York State's proposed fiscal budget.
During the interview with host JoDee Kenney, Grant shared his thoughts on Gov. Kathy Hochul's initial $260 billion spending plan and key topics that have a significant impact on employers across Western New York, including:
- State spending increases
- Climate mandate pauses
- Nuclear energy commitment
- Corporate tax rate freeze
"There's a lot in the proposed budget that, representing the business community, we are supportive, and we think the governor is headed in the right direction on several key issues," Grant said. "I think concerning is the general sense that the state continues to spend way too much money."
Visit SpectrumLocalNews.com or click the video below to watch the complete interview.
Click here to download the BNP's 2026 Advocacy Agenda – a roadmap for how business and government leaders can work together with ambitious and sensible policymaking that delivers growth, opportunity and affordability the region needs.
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