Small business growth plans outlined

Charles H. Nesbitt (139th District) outlined his plan to help small businesses grow and create jobs in Western New York. In a breakfast address to members of the National Federation of Independent Business, Nesbitt said that Assembly Republicans have made job growth in New York "job one" on their list of legislative priorities.

"Tort liability, tax policy, regulations and energy costs have combined to hinder the ability of small businesses to function in New York state," said Nesbitt. "Assembly Republicans are leading the fight for reform and lower taxes in Albany. With your help, we can lift these onerous burdens."

Assembly Republicans have already voted in favor of preserving the scheduled phasing out of additional income tax brackets in 2003, and fought to preserve the scheduled exemption on sales tax for clothing. In addition, the conference has urged that the legislature commit to preserving all planned and existing tax cuts.

Nesbitt noted that the recent push to raise New York's minimum wage is potentially devastating to small businesses.

"I voted against that increase because I believe it should be at the federal level. To do otherwise would be to put New York's small business community at a competitive disadvantage with other states."

The "Roadmap to Renewal" legislative plan includes several proposals - ranging from reforming New York's scaffold law to continuing and expanding the Empire Zone program - that would make it easier to do business in New York.

"The value of small businesses to New York's economy cannot be overestimated," Nesbitt said. "Assembly Republicans have advocated these measures for years, and we will continue to be the voice of the small businessman in Albany."