Empire State Today

Small business owners and advocates will gather at the New York State Legislative Office Building in Albany on May 6, 2025, to push for legislation that could save New Yorkers nearly $1 billion yearly. The initiative aims to eliminate swipe fees imposed on sales tax and gratuities, which have significantly affected small businesses as card payments become more prevalent.

The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) along with other small business groups, will lead the advocacy event. They intend to make lawmakers aware of the challenges posed by the fees and urge them to support the proposed legislation. Attendees will participate in various activities throughout the day, including a legislative briefing, press conference, and meetings with legislators.

Those interested must register in advance to attend the free event, which will provide both breakfast and lunch. Queries and registration assistance can be directed to Grassroots Manager Bre Mapston at bre.mapston@nfib.org.

Key activities include registration and breakfast starting at 9:30 a.m., followed by a legislative briefing at 10:00 a.m. A press conference will be held at 11:00 a.m. and legislative meetings are scheduled from noon to 2:30 p.m.

"Help us save almost $1 billion for New Yorkers," reads the call for registration, emphasizing the potential impact of this legislative change on small business owners statewide. Organizers stress the importance of direct communication between business owners and legislators to drive the initiative forward.