CenterState CEO Chief Executive Officer Rob Simpson Comments on 2027 State Budget

SYRACUSE, NY – Robert M. Simpson, chief executive officer of CenterState CEO, in Syracuse, issued this statement following passage of the FY 2027 New York State Budget:

"Though delayed in its passing, Gov. Kathy Hochul and the New York State Legislature's FY 2027 budget implements investments and policy priorities that will support business competitiveness and reduce costs for New Yorkers.

"One of the greatest challenges facing Central New York during this time of historic growth is meeting the civic demands that come from new, substantial investment. More housing is needed to address the current housing shortage. The reforms made to modernize the SEQRA process in the FY 2027 budget will accelerate new housing and other critical infrastructure projects. We applaud this commitment to making the government more efficient and reducing the amount of time it takes to build in New York state.  

"This pivotal moment of opportunity also requires us to act intentionally and quickly. We support the provisions in this budget that will streamline state government and make it more efficient, including the creation of a Regulatory Czar, an AI initiative to review existing state regulations and the modernization of state reporting systems to increase efficiency and provide greater transparency.    

"Programs such as FAST NY, RESTORE NY, POWER UP and the Downtown Revitalization Initiative that are transforming communities across the region. We are pleased that this budget provides funding for these effective economic and community development programs, as well as support for startup enterprises and workforce development. 

"We commend the Governor and State Legislature for amending the timelines previously established by the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA). The adjustments offer a more workable framework for New York’s ambitious climate goals.  

"The auto insurance reforms in this budget will address fraud and bring the state’s liability standards more in line with other states so that costs will go down for New York businesses and individuals. We support this action taken to make the state a more affordable place to live. 

"We appreciate the budget aligning with federal tax changes and implementing 'no tax on tips.' However, we are disappointed to see the decoupling of deductions for research and development expenses and the Pass-Through Entity Tax.   

"In line with efforts to prioritize affordability for New Yorkers, we are pleased to see Gov. Hochul and the Legislature hold the line on income taxes, avoiding increases for businesses or individuals. 

"We support the inclusion of aid for municipalities across the state in the budget. Particularly for Central New York, the budget includes additional aid to the City of Syracuse and provides necessary funding for major infrastructure projects that will be required in Onondaga County and across the region as we grow."