Press Releases

The following statement is attributable to Justin Wilcox, executive director of Unshackle Upstate “Governor Cuomo’s employer-centric recovery proposals reflect the importance of helping small businesses recover and rehire workers. While these proposals are a solid first step, we need to go much further. Advancing broad-based tax relief, regulatory reforms and COVID-related protections will give struggling […]

“While we’re encouraged by Governor Cuomo’s commitment to keeping the economy open, addressing Upstate infrastructure needs and investing in workforce development initiatives, we’re disappointed by the absence of reforms that would dramatically improve New York’s harsh business climate. Broad-based tax relief, COVID-related protections for employers, and changes to New York’s costly construction mandates would help […]

Unshackle Upstate’s executive board announced today that Justin Wilcox has been selected to serve as the organization’s new executive director. In this role, Wilcox will lead the organization’s ongoing advocacy efforts, strengthen partnerships with allied organizations, and raise awareness about key issues impacting Upstate’s overburdened taxpayers. “I’m honored and excited to lead this dynamic organization. […]

Unshackle Upstate, a non-partisan pro-taxpayer organization, has released a new fact sheet highlighting the burdens imposed on New York’s taxpayers. “Taxed Out – Assessing New York’s Massive Tax Burden” features state-specific tax rankings from The Tax Foundation – the nation’s leading independent tax policy research organization. “For far too long, New York’s taxpayers have carried […]

Unshackle Upstate, through its political action committee UPAC, has endorsed 8 additional candidates for the New York State Assembly. “Albany needs new representatives who will fight for overburdened taxpayers and struggling employers. These hardworking candidates have earned our support and we encourage voters to support them on Election Day.” said Brian Sampson, Unshackle Upstate Chairman […]

Unshackle Upstate, through its political action committee UPAC, has announced its slate of 2020 legislative endorsements. The bipartisan list is comprised of 19 Senate candidates and 29 Assembly candidates. “Now, more than ever, we need to elect legislators who will ease the burdens of taxpayers and employers. We strongly believe that these legislative candidates will […]

Pro-taxpayer advocacy organization calls for tax reform, mandate relief and infrastructure investment to accelerate Upstate’s recovery. ROCHESTER, NY – Citing New York State’s historic economic crisis, Unshackle Upstate has released Fast Forward – A Rapid Recovery Plan for the Upstate Economy. This pro-growth agenda is designed to accelerate Upstate’s economic recovery through a mix of […]

Statement Attributable to Michael Kracker, Executive Director of Unshackle Upstate “While the Phase 2 re-opening of 5 Upstate regions is a positive step, employers need more clarity and certainty from Albany as they begin the difficult task of reviving their businesses. We strongly encourage the administration to develop and distribute thorough guidance for Phase 3 […]

Statement from Michael Kracker, Executive Director of Unshackle Upstate “As the Legislature reconvenes to address COVID-19 related issues, we strongly urge members of the Senate and Assembly to recognize the significant economic impact of this crisis. Individuals and businesses are facing significant financial challenges that highlight the critical need to restart New York’s economy as […]

Unshackle Upstate, a pro-taxpayer education and advocacy organization, submitted written comments to the Legislature regarding the economic impacts of the COVID-19 on small businesses across New York State. “Unshackle Upstate appreciates the opportunity to submit testimony to legislators about the extraordinary challenges confronting Upstate’s small businesses,” said Michael Kracker, executive director of Unshackle Upstate. “While […]