FREQUENTLY
ASKED QUESTIONS
Q.
What is the Business Council?
A. The
Business Council of New York State, Inc. is the largest and
most powerful broad-based organization representing the interests
of large and small firms throughout the state.
Q.
Who belongs?
A. The
Business Council is made up
of thousands of member firms,
including local of chambers
of commerce and professional
and trade associations.
Our members are large, such
as Kodak and Xerox, and
small such as Pacheco Ross
Architects, P.C. and GEM
Associates. In fact, 72%
of members are small business.
Overall The Council's members
employ more than 1.2 million
New Yorkers.
Q.
Is this a new organization?
A. No. In fact, we've been acting
on behalf of employers in New
York for over 80 years. The Council
was formed in 1980 as a result
of a merger of the state's two
most powerful business groups — Associated Industries of New York State, Inc.
(1914) and the Empire State Chamber of Commerce, Inc. (1945).
Q.
What does the Council do?
A. The primary
function of the organization
is to serve as the advocate
for employers in the state political
and legislative arena, working
for policies that create a healthier
business climate, promote economic
development and further government
reform. In short, we're here
to serve as your eyes, ears and
voice on hundreds of issues which
impact your company.
Q.
Has the Council been effective?
A. We're in the midst
of an exciting new era in New
York. After decades of falling
behind, we're beginning to catch
up with the nation's growth rate.
The Business Council is working
to ensure sufficient and affordable
energy capacity for New York
State. And we've reformed the
Workers' Comp system, saving
employers billions of dollars.
The Council has worked long and
hard to change the way New
York looks at business, and we'll
continue pressing
to make sure more positive changes
are made to our economic environment.
Q.
Is lobbying the only service provided?
A. No.
The Council serves as a huge information resource center,
providing practical business knowledge through personal contact,
publications, and seminars. It also provides individualized
regulatory intervention with state agencies. Our staff is
here to assist you with problems you may have with state
government.
Q.
Are there any financial benefits?
A. Yes. Two-thirds of
our members take advantage
of our workers' compensation
and group insurance programs,
saving significantly on employee
benefits including life,
long-term disability, short
term disability and dental
insurance. In addition, there
are discount programs available
to members and much more.
Q.
Why do you need me?
A. Even
though we've made a great
deal of progress, we all
know there's much more to
be done. And, quite frankly,
the larger and more powerful
we are, the more people will
listen — and
respond. Our members think
their businesses are worth
protecting. Chances are,
you feel the same way. We
need you to help us make
a difference.
