Below is a statement from the 40+ member coalition The Business Council of New York State Inc., joined to fight back against the expansion of prevailing wages and the definition of public work.
Statement from Don’t Block NY Building Coalition on the FY 2020 New York State Budget
“The more than 40 organizations representing the interests of millions of New Yorkers that make up the Don’t Block NY Building coalition applaud the Legislature and Governor Andrew Cuomo for acting responsibly and removing language from the budget that would expand the definition of public works and impose construction prevailing wage on nearly all economic development in New York.
“The language, which mirrored that of the S.1947 (Ramos) / A.1261 (Bronson) bill, would have driven up the cost of projects by up to 25% in some areas. This would have undoubtedly halted potential projects, cost countless jobs and opportunities for New York families, and made it even more difficult to do business in the Empire State.
“Our coalition will continue to vigorously oppose the job-killing Ramos / Bronson bill, which would have a chilling effect on the New York State economy. Additionally, this legislation would limit the availability of affordable housing due to the expected increase in construction costs, which has led multiple affordable housing advocates to voice their opposition to the proposal.
“Furthermore, the expansion of prevailing wage would impact projects enabled by local Industrial Development Agencies, Governor Cuomo’s Regional Economic Development Councils and nonprofits such as hospitals and universities. Also affected would be brownfield redevelopments, historic preservation projects and renewable energy initiatives, to name a few.
“We call on members of the Legislature to consider the needs of all New Yorkers and the health of the statewide economy as the legislative session continues.”
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