Action Alert from the Public Affairs Council

The Amherst Chamber of Commerce continuously takes position on public policy issues affecting the well-being of the business community. Earlier this year, the Amherst Chamber took a strong position against legislation requiring the payment of prevailing wages by any utility or party contracting with or for the benefit of a public agency for service workers. Due to its recent movement in the New York State Legislature, we are reissuing our position on this legislation and encouraging members to take action.

On Monday, November 29, 2010, the New York State Senate Assembly passed prevailing wage legislation that would require payment of prevailing wages by any utility or party contracting with or for the benefit of a public agency for service workers. It had previously passed the New York Senate and will now go to Governor Patterson for signature. The Amherst Chamber believes that the legislation will establish a dangerous precedent by providing wages to employees of a private corporation not engaged in public works. The legislation will also lead to increased operating costs for industrial, business and technology parks as well as an increase in energy costs across New York State.

The Chamber is asking its members to mail letters to Governor Patterson urging him to veto the prevailing wage legislation, which will begin to correct the harmful economic development climate in New York State.  For a copy of the letter to Governor Patterson, click here.

For more information on all positions taken by the Amherst Chamber of Commerce, click here or call 716.632.6905.