CenterState CEO President Robert M. Simpson Comments on Governor Kathy Hochul’s State of the State Address

SYRACUSE, NY – Robert M. Simpson, president of CenterState CEO, in Syracuse, issued the following statement following Governor Kathy Hochul’s State of the State Address:

“This afternoon’s State of the State address makes it clear that New York has entered a new era, under new leadership. We welcome Governor Hochul’s call for state leaders to embrace a vision of accountability, shared success and working together to find common ground on our most pressing issues.”

“As we emerge from the pandemic, we need to position our state to be more competitive and accelerate economic growth. We applaud Governor Hochul’s commitment to better meet the needs of businesses of all sizes, with an emphasis on small business. Tax relief for small businesses is vital at a time when businesses are still operating on uncertain terrain. At the same time, as many firms are desperately seeking new employees, rebooting the state’s workforce development initiatives with an eye toward market-driven solutions and success in job placement is an important first step in solving this problem. More effective workforce development programming builds a stronger workforce that benefits us all. Large infrastructure investments, including projects like the redevelopment of I-81, expanded broadband and rail improvements deliver immediate and long-term dividends.” 

“We support the governor’s pledge to invest $10 billion in our front-line health care capabilities, including testing and public health initiatives; attracting and retaining critical medical professionals, educating the next generation of health care workers and commitment to expand this workforce by 20% over the next five years.”

“New York also needs to be ready to compete for new opportunities that will emerge across the country as companies re-shore operations and develop new assets within the U.S. The governor’s emphasis on investment in shovel-ready sites positions our state to grow. Just as vital, rapid advances are being made by a surge of startup tech firms that have been launched over the last two years. New York’s continued support of emerging high-growth companies is a sound investment in our collective future.”

“There are also difficult issues ahead that demand thoughtful solutions, including pending climate initiatives and the prospect of crippling increases in unemployment insurance premiums facing businesses across the state. We look forward to working with the administration and all our elected officials to address these issues in a way that supports business and enhances our economic environment at a time when it is needed most.”

About CenterState CEO

CenterState CEO is an independent and forward-thinking economic development strategist, business leadership organization and chamber of commerce; dedicated to the success of its members and the prosperity of the region. We serve as an advocate and resource for smart business, catalyze and facilitate regional growth, and promote community prosperity through results-driven partnerships, planning and problem-solving. www.centerstateceo.com