ALBANY (Feb. 9, 2022) – The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), New York’s and the nation’s leading small business organization, released the following statement today by NFIB State Director Ashley Ranslow in reaction to Governor Kathy Hochul’s lifting of the state mask mandate:
“This is welcome news for New York’s small businesses and our communities, which for nearly two years now have wrestled with ever-changing and taxing public health mandates. Governor Hochul’s announcement that the indoor mask or vaccine mandate will be lifted is necessary and prudent as other states, including our neighboring states, are easing restrictions and finding a way back to normal. Small businesses have endured statewide shutdowns, business restrictions, and unparalleled disruptions that have wreaked havoc on our Main Streets and economy. Miraculously, many hardworking and dedicated small business owners have managed to persevere and keep their doors open. With the absence of federal assistance and relief, significant labor shortages, supply chain disruptions, and rampant inflation, small businesses still face a great deal of uncertainty and no shortage of trials ahead. Today’s announcement is hopefully the end of COVID-related business restrictions and the beginning of Main Street’s economic revival and the revitalization of small businesses and local jobs.”
NFIB’s statement was included in the Buffalo News, the Batavia Daily News, and other publications.
