Reports Finds Rural, Upstate Areas Lagging Economically

October 22nd, 2018

According to a report released last week from a Washington D.C.-based economic think tank, the recent economic recovery has not improved the economic prospects of many Americans, particularly in rural areas such as Upstate New York. The report, released by the Economic Innovation Group (EIG), found that the economy has improved largely in the nation’s urban and suburban communities.  In New York, 22 of the state’s 62 counties are considered “distressed,” based on 2012 – 2017 Census data.

This report is a reminder of the significant challenges that face the Upstate economy. It shows the need for state lawmakers to take a hard look at what’s not working – the laws, regulations and governmental practices that are holding back our economy — and work to enacts solutions that will lead to private sector investment and good jobs that will move the Upstate economy forward.