Assemblyman warns of perilous burden on small businesses from unemployment surcharge
Steve Hawley (R,I,C - Batavia) recently wrote to Governor Andrew Cuomo urging him to rescind the
unemployment insurance (UI) surcharge imposed on small- business owners and refund those that have
already paid the charge. The fee has been unilaterally imposed by New York State officials to cover
a $95 million interest payment on federal loans that went to pay UI benefits to unemployed workers.
In the past, the United States Congress has passed legislation eliminating interest on these loans,
but has failed to do so this year. Hawley suggested using a portion of the $800 million in surplus
tax receipts to remove this burden on New York's business owners and job creators.
"As a businessman, I know firsthand how New York businesses are overregulated and overtaxed,"
said Hawley. "The impact of this unfriendly business climate has contributed to numerous job losses
throughout our state. With the enactment of a property tax cap this year and the launch of regional
economic development councils, our state is in position to craft a true economic development plan
that creates an environment allowing businesses to create jobs and help to get unemployed New
Yorkers back to work."
**Click here for a copy of Assemblyman Hawley's letter to Governor Cuomo**