Assembly Resolution No. 688

BY: M. of A. Thiele

MEMORIALIZING Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim
Summer 2017, as Small Business Summer in the State
of New York

WHEREAS, The dedication and entrepreneurial spirit of New York's
small businesses are vital to the prosperity and vibrancy of every
community across this great State; and

WHEREAS, Tourism is a vital and growing component of the New York
State economy; and

WHEREAS, The tourism sector is the fourth largest employer in New
York State on the basis of direct and indirect employment, with an
estimated eight percent, or one in twelve, of all New Yorkers working in
this sector, responsible for nearly $21 billion in direct wages in 2016,
a 25% increase from 2011; and

WHEREAS, Spending by visitors to New York State in 2016 generated an
estimated $64.8 billion in direct spending, nearly three percent higher
than in 2015, and almost $11 billion more than in 2011; and

WHEREAS, New York State tourism generated $8.2 billion in State and
local taxes in 2016; and

WHEREAS, According to the United States Department of Commerce, over
400,000 enterprises qualify as a small business in New York State,
comprising 97 percent of the State's established businesses, including a
growing number of minority- and women-owned businesses, as well as
first-time entrepreneurs, who are an invaluable part of communities all
across the State; and

WHEREAS, Small businesses play a critical role in New York State's
tourism industry, supporting tourism activities with the products and
services they provide - from a delicious meal during a night on the town
to a play on Broadway, from hot dogs at the beach to souvenirs and local
crafts in a small mountain town, from fresh farmer's market produce to
music and art at a local festival; and

WHEREAS, The innovation, diversity, competitive strength, job
creation, and quality of life that small businesses bring to our
economy, particularly to the tourism sector, are vital elements of the
long-term economic health and the unique appeal of local communities;
and

WHEREAS, Each community's character is shaped in part by its small
businesses, as local shops and stores are woven into the fabric of the
community, creating fond memories for residents and visitors alike and
spreading New York products and culture far and wide; and

WHEREAS, As summer approaches and people begin to plan for
vacations, long weekends, and day-trips to New York State's numerous
vacation and tourism destinations - parks, beaches, mountains,
historical and cultural sites, and urban and rural settings - the role

that New York's small businesses play in supporting tourism and
attracting visitors from all around the world must be recognized and
appreciated; and

WHEREAS, Summertime is an opportunity to recognize the contributions
made by small businesses - creating jobs, paying taxes, and producing
goods and services - for the people of New York State and for their
local communities; and

WHEREAS, New Yorkers and visitors alike are encouraged to support
and patronize small businesses throughout the State; now, therefore, be
it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim Summer 2017, as Small
Business Summer in the State of New York; and be it further

RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of
New York, and to the County Executive of each county in New York State.