Empire State Today

On March 18, small business owners and business advocates from around New York State gathered in Albany to voice their positions on several critical issues. These included high taxes, health care costs, credit card swipe fees, the unemployment insurance trust fund crisis, and other factors affecting New York’s business climate and affordability.

The event, hosted by the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), saw participation from 60 small business attendees. These participants had the opportunity to engage with business leaders and policy experts. The event concluded with business owners from various regions meeting with lawmakers at the Capitol to express their concerns.

Ashley Ranslow, the NFIB's State Director, initiated the event, highlighting the significance of in-person dialogue with lawmakers. This meeting was the first to occur physically since the pandemic, following three years of successful virtual advocacy days at the Capitol.

NFIB member activists urged legislators to seriously consider Main Street issues as they approach this year’s budget and legislative session. "Small Business Day recognizes the importance of small business owners to our state, and it also serves as a critical reminder to lawmakers of the complex issues owners are burdened with and how legislation can worsen these challenges," Ranslow stated. She further emphasized that agenda items, such as tax relief, public safety, and sensible regulations, including the sunset of the outdated COVID sick leave law, are vital to sustaining New York’s small business operations and Main Street jobs.

Ranslow summarized the event by expressing pride in the accomplishments of NFIB members and gratitude towards the Senators, Assembly Members, and staff who participated in discussions with the activists. "Small business is the backbone of New York’s economy, Main Streets, and job growth, and we are proud of the work are members did today and appreciate the Senators, Assembly Members, and staff who met with our activists," she added.