“Now more than ever, we need to support small businesses for the sake of our economic growth and recovery after these past two difficult years. Local businesses are a cornerstone of New York’s identity, and it’s no secret that they’ve been hit hard by the effects of the pandemic. We must provide them with the tools they need to get ahead, which is why I sponsored and passed legislation that will encourage and help businesses in New York buy products from their fellow Empire State enterprises.

“Far too often, businesses go outside of their own communities and state to purchase the goods and services they need, not knowing that these products are available right in their own backyard. This bill would create a public awareness campaign promoting New York’s businesses as well an online directory of businesses and the products they offer (A.8932). It’s a commonsense measure that will not only support the businesses that have been struggling to stay afloat, but it will spur economic development during a critical time in our state’s recovery efforts. I want to thank my Assembly colleagues for passing this legislation and urge the Senate to do the same.”