Top-Level Hudson Valley Organizations United Against $15 Minimum Wage

A number of high-level Hudson Valley organizations are united against Governor Andrew Cuomo’s proposed $15 minimum wage increase.

The Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce announced the Ulster County Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Business Council of Westchester has joined the Minimum Wage Reality Check Campaign.

The Dutchess Chamber, the Orange County Chamber of Commerce, and the Rockland Business Association are already in the coalition which is made up of over 50 local organizations that are against the proposed $15 minimum wage.

“Our boards of directors, members and community organizations are all in agreement, Governor Cuomo’s proposal will cripple the economy in the Mid-Hudson Valley,” said Frank Castella, Jr., President & CEO of the Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce in a statement. “The addition of the Ulster County Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Business Council of Westchester to the other standing organizations means we are that much stronger against this egregious proposal.”

Despite the Hudson Valley’s agreement on the issue Castella warns more is needed, “We are asking everyone, members (of the Chamber) or not, to call their legislators and ask them to stand strong against the 67% minimum wage hike.

The minimum wage proposal is currently included in the Governor’s 2016 budget. It will be voted on by the State Senate on April 1.