The New York State Senate passed 14 regulatory reform bills as the first part of a major initiative, that includes statewide public forums, to identify and eliminate thousands of costly and unnecessary government regulations that inhibit job creation and drive up local property taxes. 

<!--break-->The regulatory reform initiative  is highlighted by the creation of a Berger Commission-style Task Force.  The panel will have extraordinary power to review state rules, regulations, and public authorities and make recommendations for the repeal of ones that are determined to be unnecessary.  The Task Force recommendations would be binding unless they are rejected by the Legislature.

The package is designed to create a more competitive environment for businesses so they can create new jobs and grow for the future.  Along with the need to deliver relief from high taxes, burdensome and unnecessary regulations continue to be a major obstacle when it comes to revitalizing New York's economy.