Statement from Upstate United Following the Passage of the 2023-2024 New York State Budget

May 3rd, 2023

The following can be attributed to Upstate United Executive Director Justin Wilcox.

Minimum Wage:

“If increasing the minimum wage is intended to help those struggling financially, the earned income tax credit is a much better policy tool. It targets exactly those it is intended to help. Instead, our state leaders have decided to fuel the Empire State Exodus by raising costs across the board. And while raising the minimum wage may be well-intended, it will exacerbate inflation as businesses will be forced to pass along these mandated costs to consumers. Make no mistake about it, there will be those that benefit from an increase in the minimum wage, but unfortunately, there will also be those that lose as increased costs incentivize businesses to invest in automation and replace entry-level jobs.”

Unemployment Insurance:

“The staggering unemployment insurance debt that continues to plague employers across the state could have been avoided and should have been addressed in this year’s budget. Once again, Albany is ignoring critical issues that are negatively affecting our struggling small businesses and the Upstate economy.”

All Electric Buildings:

“This one-size-fits-all mentality is going to result in sky-rocketing costs for Upstate residents, businesses, and ratepayers. While we agree that addressing climate change is critical to sustaining New York’s natural resources, we by no means agree with taking away consumer choice and putting all our eggs in one basket. Relying solely on electricity is a dangerous and unreliable roadmap that will lead to costly homes, buildings, and utilities for struggling families and businesses in Upstate New York.”