BCW Meets with Hochul Administration to Discuss Economic Development Priorities in 2026 Executive Budget Proposal

The Business Council of Westchester (BCW) convened two meetings with business leaders for two roundtable discussions that focused on key policy initiatives impacting employers, working families, and economic growth across New York State.

The first BCW roundtable on March 9^th brought together leaders from businesses, nonprofits, and childcare organizations to discuss childcare initiatives proposed in Governor Hochul’s 2026 Executive Budget. The discussion featured insights from Commissioner Roberta Reardon of the New York State Department of Labor and Commissioner DaMia Harris-Madden of the New York State Office of Children and Family Services, who outlined the administration’s strategies to expand childcare access, strengthen the childcare workforce, and make care more affordable for families.

“This was the perfect opportunity to blend childcare and business,” said Commissioner Reardon. “Childcare is not a mother’s issue, not a father’s issue, not a family’s issue; it’s society’s issue, it’s an economic issue. If parents cannot find appropriate childcare for their small children, one of them will not be able to work full time.”

Commissioner Harris-Madden emphasized the broader goal of supporting families across the state. “The Governor’s goal is really to make New York State a place where we can raise our children, and it is affordable.”

Participants also shared how childcare accessibility directly impacts workforce participation, employee retention, and the ability of businesses and nonprofit organizations to operate effectively.

On March 11^th, The BCW in partnership with the Business Council of New York State (BCNYS) facilitated a presentation with the Commissioner of the New York State Office of General Services (OGS), Jeanette Moy, who outlined the Governor’s budget priorities and discussed policies designed to support businesses and families across the state.

“I appreciate the Business Council of Westchester hosting this meeting which will allow me to share information about the Governor’s budget and hear from BCW members on issues that my agency can assist with,” said Commissioner Moy. “The Governor cares very deeply about New York families and has worked since the beginning of her administration to deliver a safer New York and a more affordable New York.”

During the discussion, Commissioner Moy addressed issues impacting the business community, including safety regulations, universal childcare proposals, minimum wage considerations, insurance costs, workforce development, infrastructure investments, and growth in sectors such as construction, technology, real estate, and artificial intelligence. A key focus was the state’s effort to streamline processes and reduce regulatory barriers that can hinder business operations.

Business owners were also encouraged to engage directly with the Governor’s administration through the Express NY Portal, an online platform where businesses can submit questions, proposals, and concerns to state leadership. The BCW encourages all members to submit their comments before the April 3 deadline.