FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

ALBANY, NY (Dec. 21, 2024) – The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), the nation’s leading small business advocacy association, released the following statement by NFIB New York State Director Ashley Ranslow in reaction to Gov. Kathy Hochul’s veto this evening of wrongful death legislation:

“NFIB applauds Governor Hochul for vetoing this legislation, which would have driven costs higher for small businesses and all New Yorkers. The cost of insurance is already too high for Main Street businesses and becoming less and less available due to an insurance market on the cusp of crisis. Everyday consumers and small business owners are faced with rising prices, and affordability remains the top concern for voters. If reigning in spiraling costs is a priority for lawmakers, then the appropriate approach is to consider all perspectives and a thorough fiscal analysis of the potential repercussions of this legislation. Sensible policy should be the guiding force rather than repeatedly passing legislation pushed by the well-connected and powerful plaintiffs’ attorneys lobbying group. Vetoing this legislation is the right decision if the state is serious about not adding to the affordability crisis that is leading residents to flee the Empire State.”

###

For 80 years, NFIB has been the voice of small business, advocating on behalf of America’s small and independent business owners, both in Washington, D.C., and in all 50 state capitals. NFIB is nonprofit, nonpartisan, and member driven. Since our founding in 1943, NFIB has been exclusively dedicated to small and independent businesses and remains so today. For more information, please visit www.NFIB.com.