New York’s minimum wage push spurs USA debate, faces hurdles at home

Gov. Andrew Cuomo is holding his third annual Beer, Wine, Spirits and Cider Summit today at 10 a.m.in the Hart Lounge at the Egg Center for Performing Arts in the Empire State Plaza.

The Business Council in New York is voicing opposition, saying it would increase private sector labor costs by $15.7 billion a year. Cuomo suggested further state investments in advertising as well as financing help for startup wineries and breweries. “I think that’s a good investment”.

Cuomo noted increased sales of New York wine at the third Wine, Beer, Spirits, and Cider Summit in Albany, NY, October 7, 2015. He also said he doesn’t think tax breaks the Governor has talked about, will help enough. “We are required to report by liters in New York state when all our products are proof gallons, so that’s something we’d like to see addressed”.

The summit is a way for people involved in the industry to discuss issues and opportunities for building new business.

Albany kicked in $16 million to support the state’s craft beverage industry on Wednesday, including $5 million for no-interest loans, plus stepped-up marketing and beverage-related tourism and grants for beverage entrepreneurs to attend educational events and showcases in other states.

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) New York’s beer, wine, cider and distilling industries are marking another year of growth.

It’s led production to jump 54 percent, to 859,535 barrels previous year, the report said.