Archives

Mar 7 2021

Statement from Unshackle Upstate Regarding Potential Tax Increases

The following statement is attributable to Justin Wilcox, executive director of Unshackle Upstate. “New York due to receive billions in federal aid, there’s no reason to withhold tax relief for middle-class families in this year’s state budget. Unshackle Upstate strongly believes that broad-based tax relief is essential to New York’s economic recovery. Delivering relief to […]


Jan 25 2021

Unshackle Upstate Releases 2021 Advocacy Agenda

Pro-taxpayer organization advocates for pro-growth measures to rebuild the state’s economy. Unshackle Upstate, a pro-taxpayer education and advocacy organization, released its 2021 Advocacy Agenda. Citing widespread business closures, job losses and the state’s economic crisis, the organization seeks to promote pro-growth measures that accelerate New York’s recovery. The organization’s key priorities for the 2021 legislative […]


Jan 19 2021

Statement from Unshackle Upstate Regarding Governor Cuomo’s Budget Proposals

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 […]


Jan 14 2021

Unshackle Upstate Statement Regarding Governor Cuomo’s State of the State Address

“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 […]


Dec 14 2020

Unshackle Upstate Announces New Executive Director

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. […]


Oct 19 2020

Unshackle Upstate Release Fact Sheet on New York’s Tax Burden

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 […]


Oct 14 2020

Unshackle Upstate Announces Additional Legislative Endorsements

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 […]


Oct 6 2020

Unshackle Upstate Announces Legislative Endorsements

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 […]


Sep 10 2020

UNSHACKLE UPSTATE RELEASES NEW ECONOMIC RECOVERY PLAN

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 […]


May 29 2020

Statement from Unshackle Upstate Regarding Phase 2 Re-Opening and Future Phases

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 […]