Blog Categories
We pride ourselves on being thought leaders and a go-to source for information on issues affecting the region. Some items you’ll find here include:
- Perspectives on important issues
- Guest blogs from industry experts
- Notifications about key political happenings
- Updates/recaps on our events
- Member achievements and spotlights
- Significant news and press announcements
Check back often or subscribe to the BNP Brief for updates.
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This weekend, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the bipartisan infrastructure bill, known as the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. The bill’s passing is a significant milestone after months of contentious negotiations.
The bill would invest in roads, bridges, water and wastewater systems, airports, broadband, and the electric grid.
The November 2021 Advocacy Insider is a roundup of important issues we are monitoring that could you and your business.
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.
The Buffalo Niagara Partnership is pleased to present Daniel Schlein, a 2022 BN360 Spotlight Professional.
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.
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.
Attracting, retaining, and promoting the right employees continues to challenge employers in every sector of the Western New York economy. As we all navigate COVID-19-related changes to the workplace, new workforce development and advancement tools will be needed to move our region forward.
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.
Late last night, U.S. officials announced plans to reopen the U.S. border to vaccinated, non-essential travelers from Canada and Mexico beginning in early November.
The administration told reporters last night that it does not plan to require vaccinated travelers to present a negative COVID-19 test, a notable difference from Canada’s policy for American travelers.
Maddilyn Schaus is a familiar face at the BNP. After working for BNP previously, Maddilyn left to work in government before returning to us. We are excited to welcome Maddilyn back as our Manager, Workforce Development, and our latest staff spotlight!