The state Assembly Republican conference has proposed creating jobs and boosting the economy with a sweeping program that includes an expanded Empire Zone program, new incentives for manufacturers, a state takeover of all Medicaid costs, and a ban on new unfunded state mandates.
“Rebuilding New York’s economy and creating new jobs and opportunities for New Yorkers must be the top priority of government at every level – ‘Job One’ – around which every other action must be measured,” said Leader Nesbitt (R-C, Albion).
Business Council President Daniel B. Walsh hailed the proposal.
“We couldn’t be more pleased that the Assembly Republicans have designed a program with New Yorkers best interests in mind,” Walsh said. “The program emphasizes smaller governments and lower costs to the taxpayer. That is what makes business grow, and that is what will make jobs return to New York.”
“Roadmap to Renewal,” which outlines the Assembly Republicans 2004 legislative priorities, highlights several points designed to improve the quality of life for New Yorkers.
- Economic development proposals would expand and reform
Empire Zones by creating a statewide "Superzone"
and a "EZ Main Street" program that would provide
new tax breaks and help small businesses in downtown districts.
The proposals also include tax incentives for manufacturing
companies that create and maintain new jobs and simplified
tax codes to make New York more attractive to business.
The roadmap also highlights the need to ensure safe, reliable
and affordable energy to New Yorkers and offers new incentives
for family farmers in New York.
- Government reform proposals would create a computer mapping
system to promote better efficiency and accountability in
state government. The roadmap also proposes a five-year
state takeover of local Medicaid costs and other fiscal
relief for counties as well as a ban on new, unfunded mandates.
The proposals also urge stricter limits on the ability of
the state lawmakers to enact new and higher taxes.
- Community safety proposals would enact a “zero tolerance” plan for sexual offenses, addresses urban and gang crimes in the state, and a proposal to reduce drunk-driving fatalities. The Assembly Republicans are also proposing new anti-terrorism measures.
For a PDF copy of “Roadmap to Renewal,” click here.