The Business Council of New York State (BCNYS) announced a major statewide affordability campaign on Tuesday, designed to ensure New Yorkers can save money and businesses can continue to grow and operate in the state.
As lawmakers consider hundreds of policies that directly affect the cost of living and the cost of doing business, the campaign will evaluate and publicly rate those policies based on affordability. The goal is to bring transparency to how policy decisions impact household budgets, job creation, and New York’s long-term economic competitiveness.
Through a seven-figure investment, The Business Council will educate the public, policymakers, and the business community about which proposals lower costs and which risk driving residents and employers out of the state.
“Affordability is the defining issue for New York families and businesses,” said Heather Mulligan, President & CEO of The Business Council. “Too many New Yorkers are struggling with rising costs, and too many employers are questioning whether they can continue to operate here. This campaign is about accountability. Every major proposal should be judged on a simple question: Does it make New York more affordable or less?”
“Everyone has seen the $ signs when they look at restaurants online that indicate how expensive the meal will be – that’s what we will be doing with policies that are introduced,” said Paul Zuber, EVP of The Business Council.
The affordability ratings will examine how proposed policies affects:
• Household expenses
• Energy and utility costs
• Taxes and fees
• Housing and infrastructure costs
• Business operating costs
• Job growth and investment
The campaign will roll out statewide through digital, media, and grassroots engagement, providing clear, accessible scorecards that allow New Yorkers to understand how decisions in Albany affect their daily lives.
“Keeping businesses in New York is essential to keeping communities strong. When companies leave, jobs leave. When costs rise, families feel it immediately. We need policies that make it easier to live, work, and invest in this state,” said Heather Mulligan.
The Business Council said the campaign is intended to support pro-growth, pro-affordability solutions that strengthen New York’s economy while protecting residents from additional financial strain.
Click here to read more on the Business Council of New York State website.
