Unshackle Upstate Statement Regarding a Prevailing Wage Expansion

June 19th, 2019

“At the start of the year, Governor Cuomo declared himself the voice of Upstate. But with this latest proposal on prevailing wage, he might as well hang a ‘Going Out of Business’ sign across Upstate New York. Expanding prevailing wage in the state’s most economically distressed communities while carving out New York City makes absolutely no sense. Upstate regions are already struggling with anemic job growth and a declining population. This expanded mandate will cost our communities more jobs, deter future investment and chase more families out of Upstate New York.

By exempting New York City, Governor Cuomo would be choosing to protect the economy of one region, while leaving others to suffer the burdens of this costly policy. Any Upstate legislator who supports this bill would be actively working against the economic interest of their constituents and the future of their communities. We urge those Upstate members and legislative leaders to stand up for Upstate and reject this disastrous proposal.”