Greater Rochester Chamber responds to Governor Hochul’s 2026 State of the State address with support for key policy priorities

Rochester, New York – The Greater Rochester Chamber responded Monday to Governor Kathy Hochul’s 2026 State of the State address with a statement expressing cautious optimism and strong support for several priorities outlined by the governor. The remarks were delivered in Albany earlier in the day and focused on economic growth, workforce support, infrastructure, housing, and regulatory reform across New York State.

In a statement released Jan. 13 on behalf of President and CEO Bob Duffy, the Chamber emphasized that the governor’s address aligned closely with long-standing advocacy efforts from the regional business community. The organization, which represents more than 1,300 member businesses across the Finger Lakes region, highlighted the importance of policies that support both employers and working families.

“Governor Hochul’s State of the State address today outlined a bold vision for the future of New York State – a vision to make a better state for people and businesses that live, work, and play here. We appreciate her outlined investments in issues that Greater Rochester Chamber has been a staunch advocate for. From incentivizing businesses to expand childcare offerings and education initiatives that support our workforce to an all-of-the-above approach to energy and programs to expand housing supply, we need New York State leadership that is working hard to deliver on the issues that matter most in our community.”

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The Chamber noted that access to childcare, workforce development, and housing availability remain critical challenges for employers throughout the region. Business leaders have repeatedly cited these issues as barriers to hiring, retaining workers, and expanding operations. By addressing these areas directly, the organization said the governor’s proposals signal a willingness to tackle practical, everyday concerns facing businesses and employees alike.

Another key area of focus in the Chamber’s response was regulatory reform. New York’s regulatory framework has long been a concern for developers and employers, particularly when it comes to project delays and administrative complexity. The Chamber said the governor’s remarks acknowledged these challenges and proposed steps to modernize outdated systems.

“The Governor’s remarks today outlined programs and policies to address these issues and more, including much needed modernization of New York’s antiquated regulatory environment. With goals to reduce bottlenecks and red tape at state agencies and modernize the SEQR process that is stalling critical development, we are optimistic about the future of our state and region.”

The State Environmental Quality Review process, commonly known as SEQR, has often been cited as a major obstacle to timely development. Business groups have argued that while environmental protections remain important, the process itself must be updated to reflect current needs and realities. The Chamber’s statement suggests that changes in this area could unlock stalled projects and encourage new investment across the region.

Looking ahead, Greater Rochester Chamber said it plans to remain actively engaged throughout the 2026 legislative session. The organization emphasized collaboration with state leaders, local lawmakers, and partner organizations as essential to turning policy ideas into real-world outcomes.

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“This legislative session, Greater Rochester Chamber will continue collaboration with Governor Hochul, our Rochester delegation, and other partners to grow our region and state. On behalf of our 1,300 member organizations, we are looking forward to advocating for the policies and programs that advance our shared goals.”

As the primary advocate for the Finger Lakes region’s business community, Greater Rochester Chamber continues to push for policies that strengthen the local and state economy at every level of government. Additional information about the organization’s advocacy efforts is available through its website, and officials say they remain focused on ensuring the region’s voice is heard as state budget and policy discussions move forward in the coming months.