ECIDA Creates New MWBE Incentive
The Erie County Industrial Development Agency recently approved a new incentive for MWBE subcontractor utilization, known as the Economic Inclusion Program.
To qualify for the incentive, applicants must achieve a 30% MWBE utilization rate (25% MBE/5% WBE) in the construction phase of a project. Additionally, post-construction, applicants must meet a 30% M/W job creation requirement. Applicants must also commit to some post-project initiatives, including MWBE procurement practices, adopting a DEI policy, providing DEI training for staff, or providing mentorship for MWBE businesses.
Applicants who meet these criteria are eligible for larger and longer tax abatements through ECIDA (see chart below).
Although a heavy-handed MWBE mandate was initially discussed, the BNP successfully advocated for making this policy an opt-in incentive.
The full policy is available here. Businesses interested in learning how their DEI strategy can make them eligible for this incentive should contact the BNP’s Kenya Hobbs at khobbs@thepartnership.org.
Related Posts
11.4.21 COVID-19 Bulletin: OSHA Releases “Vax or Test” Rule: What You Need to Know
Yesterday, Governor Kathy Hochul announced she would repeal the state’s mask mandate, effective today. However, her announcement did not proactively address how the repeal coincided with the NY HERO Act, which would have required employees in most workplaces to continue masking.
10.22.21 Advocacy Alert: Hochul Signs Parolee Employment Legislation
Today, Governor Kathy Hochul signed S.2803/A.5707 into law. This legislation reduces barriers to employment for formerly incarcerated individuals.
Curfews are commonly included in probation or conditional discharge sentences. These restrictions can prevent the formerly incarcerated from working second- and third-shift jobs, limiting their job prospects.
10.21.21 Advocacy Alert: HERO Safety Committee Provision Takes Effect 11/1
A new state law goes into effect on November 1, which will change labor relations as they pertain to occupational health.
Earlier this year, the state enacted the NY HERO Act. One provision of the bill, which required employers to have infectious disease prevention plans, took effect this summer.
10.15.21 Advocacy Alert: NYS Dept. of Labor Releases New Adult Use Cannabis & the Workplace Guidance
The New York State Department of Labor (DOL) released a guide to help employers answer questions related to the new Marijuana Regulations and Taxation Act (MRTA). Earlier this year, the MRTA officially designated cannabis as both a legally consumable product and a lawful recreational activity for adults.