News from Assemblyman 130th Assembly District JOSEPH A. ERRIGO   For immediate release: March 7th, 2005 Contact: Adam Peterson (585) 334-5210 District Office: 3045 East Henrietta Rd., Henrietta, NY  14467 Albany Office: Rm 427 LOB, Albany, NY  12248

COLUMN BY ASSEMBLYMAN ERRIGO FOR THE WEEK OF 3/7/05 RENEW EMPIRE ZONE PROGRAM      I support renewing the Empire Zone program in the 2005-06 state budget. The Empire Zone program is one of New York's most effective job development resources.      A business could qualify to become tax-free if it is located in one of New York State's 72 Empire Zones. Empire Zones (EZs) are designated areas throughout the State that offer special incentives to encourage economic and community development, business investment and job creation. Certified businesses located within an EZ are eligible to receive significant tax credits and benefits.      The Empire Zone program has created more than 71,000 jobs since its inception. Most people do not know that by law, the program is to expire at the end of March unless it is extended as part of the state budget for the new fiscal year beginning April 1.      Empire Zones provide business-friendly combinations of tax reductions, energy savings and other incentives to encourage businesses to expand or locate in designated areas of New York. The program has benefited many communities across the state through job creation.      The Empire Zone program has been an important part of Gov. George Pataki's efforts to cut taxes, create new jobs and enhance the state's economic climate.      I am positive that the program will continue, since the governor included a five-year extension of it in his budget proposal.   -30-