Statement from Upstate United Regarding Governor Kathy Hochul’s Executive Budget Proposal

February 1st, 2023

The following statement is attributable to Upstate United Executive Director Justin Wilcox:

“While the Executive Budget includes necessary investments to expand broadband access and improve the state’s infrastructure, the Governor’s proposal falls short in addressing New York’s population exodus, mounting UI debt, and the viability of our small and family-owned businesses.

In fact, the UI debt New York owes the federal government was completely left out of the Executive Budget address. The Governor cannot continue passing the buck to employers and forcing small businesses to pay back this debt. Relief is needed now.

When it comes to indexing the minimum wage, the Governor’s proposal is economic malpractice. Putting more money into the economy as the Fed tries to take money out, is illogical. It’s clear this proposal will accomplish one thing – exacerbate inflation, which increased by 8.6% for food and 22.6% for home energy costs in 2022.

It will also increase payroll taxes, workers’ compensation, retirement plans, and other labor-related costs for our struggling small businesses. Moreover, as entry-level wages rise, businesses are forced to increase wages for other employees in order to retain their skilled workforce. Increasing the cost of business means those costs will be passed on to consumers, and the vicious cycle will continue. 

New York must do more to provide relief to taxpayers and support our regional economies. We urge Governor Hochul to work with the Legislature and do better for New Yorkers.”