Orleans and Genesee Empire Zones to expand

According to Assembly Republican Leader Charles H. Nesbitt (R-139th District), changes outlined in the new state budget for the Empire Zone program include revisions to the Genesee and Orleans County Zones that will double their size and create new incentives for manufacturing and agriculture.

"It has long been my belief that job creation in western New York and across the state must be a top priority," said Nesbitt. "The Empire Zone program has proven to be New York's most effective economic development program and the revisions we passed today will do much to enhance the Zones in Orleans and Genesee Counties."

Include in the state budget passed is a provision that will allow the one mile zones in Orleans and Genesee Counties to add an additional square mile.

During budget negotiations, special incentives for manufacturing and agriculture suggested by Nesbitt were also agreed to. Under the new program, any manufacturing project within these zones will qualify for the maximum tax benefits allowed, regardless of their size, Additionally, any manufacturer that creates 50 or more jobs can qualify for Empire Zone benefits even if they are located outside a zone. Farmers will now also be able to receive benefits because agriculture will be included in the new definition of manufacturing.

The Empire Zone program was also extended another six years to 2011.