News

NYSDOL Issues April 2024 Newsletter

Apr 29, 2024

The New York State Department of Labor (NYSDOL) has issued its April 2024 newsletter, which can be read below.

Apr Bizz Buzz Header

April 2024

We’ve Got You Covered: Your Feedback Can Help Shape Labor Policies and Programs

Taking a virtual surveyThe DOL offers a wide variety of programs and services to help businesses across all industries.  All of our services are available at no cost to you.  Each month, we’ll highlight what we offer and how we can help your business grow or get through tough times.  If something catches your eye, reach out to us and we can create customized solutions to help you meet your goals, no matter what you’re facing.

Our business survey is back!

Over the last three years, we’ve teamed up with The Business Council and Empire State Development to survey thousands of businesses on their challenges and needs.  This year, we’ve added the New York Association of Training and Employment Professionals as a partner.  The results of the annual survey continue to shape workforce development practices, policy, and programs across New York State.

Please take a few minutes to take this year’s survey and let us know where you're struggling to find workers, the skills your business is looking for, and more!

State Budget Includes Bold Initiatives

Kathy HochulGovernor Kathy Hochul recently announced a Fiscal Year 2025 Executive Budget, which includes initiatives to strengthen the state's economy and accelerate her agenda to fight crime, fix our mental health system, and build more affordable housing statewide.

One of the marquee initiatives is a $40.2 plan to crack down on retail theft.  The plan will increase penalties for offenders who assault retail workers and offer a $3,000 tax credit for business owners to invest in security resources.

Other budget highlights include:

  • Landmark housing deal to increase housing supply and protect tenants.
  • $35.5 billion investment In Medicaid to support New York’s health care system.
  • $1.3 Billion increase in school aid.

For more, see a complete rundown of highlights from the FY2025 budget.

From MLK Career Fair Success to Meeting Your Workforce Needs Now!

2024 MLK Career Fair Video Still
Our recent Dr. King Career Fair was a huge success - 170 businesses, 500 job seekers, and 65 on-the-spot interviews!  Be sure to check out our recap video.

Let’s keep the momentum going to address your hiring needs.

  • New York State Virtual Career Center (VCC) - Jump into the VCC and post your job openings in a snap!  This advanced technology platform matches you with the perfect candidates fast, making hiring a breeze.
  • New York State Job Bank - Struggling to find the right talent?  Dive into our Job Bank!  With over 135,000 listings across a spectrum of industries, it’s your go-to for snagging top-notch pros.
  • Host Your Own Career Fair - Nothing beats face-to-face connections.  Host a Career Fair or a Custom Recruitment event to meet skilled hopefuls and fill your ranks with the best.

Contact your local Business Services Representative today and turbocharge your hiring process!

Incentives Available to Get Greener During Earth Month

Charging Station Go Green at WorkIn the spirit of Earth Month, the DOL is highlighting a few sustainable, cost-saving opportunities available to New York businesses through NYSERDA.

Their On-site Energy Manager (OsEM) program can help create efficient processes that decrease cost and waste, lower operational costs, reduce maintenance time, and create comfortable, safe work areas.  The program offers a 75 percent cost-share for industrial and commercial facilities or buildings to hire a dedicated full-time or part time on-site energy manager.

Energy efficiency or clean energy businesses can capitalize on NYSERDA’s On-the-Job Training Program that reduces the financial risk of hiring and training new employees.  The program provides reimbursement up to 75% of a new hire’s wages for their first four to six months of employment.  New York State businesses that provide services in industries such as high efficiency HVAC, solar photovoltaics, electric vehicle charging stations, building controls, insulation, and other clean energy technologies are eligible to participate.