Issue Position: Getting NY Back On Its Feet

Issue Position

COVID-19 has negatively impacted us in many ways. First and foremost the many lives lost is a tragedy. Second, the economic impact and fiscal crisis that we are facing as a result is unprecedented. We still have not received the essential aid we need from the Federal Government. All efforts must be made to explore and develop new revenue streams that can fund schools, municipalities, health services, etc. A mid-year fiscal report from Comptroller DiNapoli in mid-October followed by a fiscal report from Governor Cuomo will provide essential information on alternative revenue streams in the event that NYS has to act without any Emergency Federal Assistance. I will continue to work diligently on unemployment issues, advocate for tax and rent relief as well as helping to fund health insurance initiatives to assist those that lost their health insurance benefits due to job loss as a result of COVID-19.

Businesses throughout AD21 have been hit extremely hard. I will continue to strongly advocate and address the needs of our small businesses. I successfully lobbied the Governor to open bowling alleys, health clubs, and malls. Now I am lobbying for the opening of movie theatres, comedy clubs, smaller live concert venues and we increase seating in restaurants now that our COVID-19 numbers have flattened.

I will continue exploring ways that increased financial help can be provided to support small businesses. I would like to see more grants awarded to local small businesses. I am reviewing the viability for the New York Forward Loan Program to reduce red tape so that grants to small businesses are expedited. I will continue looking for ways we can help small businesses with rent payments beyond the moratorium due to end October 20, 2020.

Source