Hundreds Turn Out For Save Small Businesses Rally in NYC
NYSRA and its members joined with New York City business leaders yesterday in a rally at City Hall calling for an end to further mandates against small businesses. Attendees voiced displeasure with the de Blasio administration and the City Council, listing numerous reasons why it is nearly impossible for small businesses to operate in New York City.
Six City Councilmembers joined the rally and spoke about their personal efforts to try and aid the businesses that make this city special. They specifically mentioned the Mayor’s paid time off proposal as a divisive issue and one that needs to be more closely examined before moving forward.
The Association’s Government Affairs team will be back at City Hall today for hearings on Commercial Waste Carting and Third Party Delivery companies. We will continue to provide updates on these issues following the hearings today.
Governor Cuomo Not Sold On E-Bike Legalization
After seeing legislation passed last week legalizing e-bikes and e-scooters, many began counting down the days until these alternative forms of transportation took to the streets. However, the Governor doesn’t seem ready to sign off on this bill as most had thought.
Speaking earlier in the week, Governor Cuomo said the bill will require further investigation and discussion before he is ready to sign it into law. He highlighted a number of safety concerns that have been associated with these forms of transportation in localities where they are legal.
The Association has long advocated for legalization of e-bikes as it would clean up an issue many in our industry are facing, particularly in New York City. Currently, delivery workers who use these types of bikes face costly fines and confiscation if they get caught using them, which hurts workers and the restaurants alike. We will continue to urge the Governor to sign this important piece of legislation and will update you on its progress.
