Upstate United Responds to $220 Billion State Budget
April 8th, 2022
The following statements are attributable to Justin Wilcox, executive director of Upstate United
Main Budget Statement:
“Governor Hochul and legislative leaders have passed a massive budget that spends too much and does too little to help overburdened taxpayers and employers. At $220 billion – just over $11,000 per New Yorker – this budget fails to address the cost drivers that have driven countless residents out of the state. For millions of New Yorkers who are struggling with the high cost of living, Albany’s tax relief measures fail to overcome the crushing impacts of historic inflation. Our leaders in Albany could have and should have done more to bring back our economy and our people.”
Regarding the Unemployment Insurance Crisis:
“Despite an extraordinary effort by our organization, allies in the business community and support from numerous legislators, this year’s budget failed miserably to deliver unemployment insurance relief. This is especially disappointing considering the state is sitting on billions in federal aid that it could have used to pay the $9.6 billion UI debt to Washington. This failure flies in the face of Governor Hochul’s own pledge to make New York the most business friendly state in the nation. Make no mistake – consumers across the state will ultimately bear the burden of this inaction.”
Regarding Brownfield Cleanup Program:
“We appreciate the efforts of Senator Kennedy and Assemblywoman Crystal Peoples-Stokes to secure a 10-year extension of the Brownfield Cleanup Program. This program has a strong track record of delivering economic and environmental benefits to Upstate communities. However, we’re disappointed and concerned about the inclusion of a $50,000 application fee. Considering the positive impacts of this program, imposing this financial burden is unnecessary and unwise and will likely disproportionately harm Upstate.”
Regarding Digital Gaming Tax Credits:
“The inclusion of a $5 million tax credit for digital gaming companies is one of the few bright spots in this year’s budget. This emerging industry has created more than 10,000 good-paying jobs – many of which are located throughout the Upstate region. We thank Senator Cooney and Senator Breslin for their work on this important issue. Moving forward, our leaders in Albany should consider additional ways to support this exciting sector.”
Regarding Downstate-Only Child Care Tax Credits:
“There’s simply no reason for Upstate businesses to be excluded from the same tax credits as New York City businesses that seek to offer child care on site. This shortsighted measure creates an uneven and unfair playing field.”