New York State Assembly

Each year, the first Monday of September marks our national observance of Labor Day to celebrate one of our country's most important resources: the American worker. As we celebrate the American labor movement, we celebrate the hard work and dedication of those who power our state and our country. This Labor Day, we must remember that greatness is the result of this hard work and dedication.

Since the birth of our country, Americans have placed a high value on individual liberty and the freedom to make our own way. American workers are among the most skillful, productive and industrious in the world; they design, build and staff Fortune 500 companies, world-class schools, hospitals and so much more. Behind every great success in our country are the people who created it, so this holiday we celebrate those who provide our country's valuable services.

A brief history of the holiday is available at the Department of Labor website. Did you know New York was the first state to introduce legislation recognizing the holiday? Other interesting facts can be found at http://www.dol.gov/laborday/history.htm.

CHALLENGES WORKERS FACE IN NEW YORK

From cultivating the vines of our Finger Lakes region to building the skyscrapers of New York City, New Yorkers have always been go-getters. We are known for our resilience, entrepreneurship and initiative, and our successes show as much.

Unfortunately, our small businesses are slammed with cumbersome regulations and onerous taxes. As much as possible, New Yorkers' hard-earned money belongs in the pockets of New Yorkers. I want to strengthen our local businesses because they are the backbone of our state and country. I have supported and proposed initiatives designed to cut the many taxes, assessments and fees imposed on businesses; deliver unfunded mandate relief to reduce the local tax burden; and remove regulatory roadblocks that hinder prosperity. When New York's workers and small businesses are free of encumbrances we will finally be in a position to grow.

SUPPORTING SMALL BUSINESS IS THE KEY TO CREATING JOBS

Creating financial flexibility and cutting bureaucratic red tape for current businesses will not only keep jobs in the state but also create jobs for the future. New Yorkers are known to be driven and each deserves every opportunity from state government to prosper from their will to succeed. It's the American worker who is behind the success of America. So enjoy your day without labor, you've earned it.

What do you think? I want to hear from you. Send me your feedback, suggestions and ideas regarding this or any other issue facing New York State. You can always contact my district office at (315) 781-2030 or email me at kolbb@assembly.state.ny.us.