Cuomo Announced Budget Deal “We are Leaders in Economic Justice” Politico
Jimmy Vielkind
“The announced budget agreement incorporates provisions which will threaten the viability of New York’s small businesses and set our state on a path of complete economic uncertainty. With an agenda filled with false narratives, Governor Cuomo’s push for the most expansive paid leave mandate and highest minimum wage will put Main Street in fiscal peril,” said Mike Durant, the state director for the NFIB.
April 1, 2016
Small Biz Unhappy with Minimum Wage Hike Capital Tonight Interview on Time Warner Cable
Liz Benjamin
“It’s very difficult to accept the spin that this is a compromise.”
March 26, 2016
“Business groups concerned about the sharp increase, however, say they don’t want a compromise – they want the proposal to fail.
“We know the issue is on the 1-yard line,” said Mike Durant, state director of the National Federation of Independent Business. “Maybe this deal falls apart.””
March 25, 2016
Exemptions May Color Deal to Lift New York State’s Minimum Wage New York Times
Jesse McKinley
“Opponents of the $15 minimum wage fear that Mr. Flanagan and other Republicans may be compelled to accept the plan, to avoid alienating moderate voters, who could hand control of the Senate to the Democrats.
“We understand that there’s a special election in a couple of weeks; we understand that the governor has a pretty hefty stick right now,” said Mike Durant, the New York State director of the National Federation of Independent Business, adding, “We’re feeling the heat.””
March 24, 2016
Possible Compromise Deal on Minimum Wage Rejected by Advocates on Both Sides of the Issue NY1
Also: $15 Minimum Wage: How Albany’s Action will Impact You Staten Island Advance
“We know that this issue is at the one-yard line. The senate needs to reject it. Need to pull it out of the budget,” said Mike Durant of the Small Business Association. “It’s not a fiscal issue. It’s not related to the fiscal health of the state. It’s obviously a political issue.”
March 24, 2016
Business Groups Says Compromises Show Wage Bill is Faulty Newsday
Michael Gormley
“The carveouts for small businesses and farmers acknowledges it will have a negative impact, so what’s the point?” said Mike Durant, state director of the National Federation of Independent Businesses.
