Blog Categories
We pride ourselves on being thought leaders and a go-to source for information on issues affecting the region. Some items you’ll find here include:
- Perspectives on important issues
- Guest blogs from industry experts
- Notifications about key political happenings
- Updates/recaps on our events
- Member achievements and spotlights
- Significant news and press announcements
Check back often or subscribe to the BNP Brief for updates.
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Today, Governor Kathy Hochul signed S.2803/A.5707 into law. This legislation reduces barriers to employment for formerly incarcerated individuals.
Curfews are commonly included in probation or conditional discharge sentences. These restrictions can prevent the formerly incarcerated from working second- and third-shift jobs, limiting their job prospects.
A new state law goes into effect on November 1, which will change labor relations as they pertain to occupational health.
Earlier this year, the state enacted the NY HERO Act. One provision of the bill, which required employers to have infectious disease prevention plans, took effect this summer.
Attracting, retaining, and promoting the right employees continues to challenge employers in every sector of the Western New York economy. As we all navigate COVID-19-related changes to the workplace, new workforce development and advancement tools will be needed to move our region forward.
10.15.21 Advocacy Alert: NYS Dept. of Labor Releases New Adult Use Cannabis & the Workplace Guidance
The New York State Department of Labor (DOL) released a guide to help employers answer questions related to the new Marijuana Regulations and Taxation Act (MRTA). Earlier this year, the MRTA officially designated cannabis as both a legally consumable product and a lawful recreational activity for adults.
Late last night, U.S. officials announced plans to reopen the U.S. border to vaccinated, non-essential travelers from Canada and Mexico beginning in early November.
The administration told reporters last night that it does not plan to require vaccinated travelers to present a negative COVID-19 test, a notable difference from Canada’s policy for American travelers.
Maddilyn Schaus is a familiar face at the BNP. After working for BNP previously, Maddilyn left to work in government before returning to us. We are excited to welcome Maddilyn back as our Manager, Workforce Development, and our latest staff spotlight!
BNP’s Q4 Manufacturing Council meeting focused on the New York State Climate and Community Investment Act’s potential impact on the manufacturing sector. We were joined by NYS Senate Minority Leader Rob Ortt and Donna DeCarolis, President of National Fuel Gas Distribution Corp.
The October 2021 Advocacy Insider is a roundup of important issues we are monitoring that could you and your business.
Unless the state swiftly acts, New York employers may soon face significant unemployment insurance rate increases.
New York State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli recently released a report detailing the dire financial status of the state’s UI system, confirming concerns that the BNP raised this summer.
The Partnership’s annual Advocacy & Member Survey is designed to identify pain points, areas of concern, and obstacles to growth. We have summarized the 2021 results in the Member Pulse Report.
According to the survey, the top concern of Buffalo Niagara employers is their difficulty finding and retaining qualified talent.