Greater Rochester Chamber releases statement on CLCPA changes included in New York State budget highlighting new energy policy adjustments

Rochester, New York – The Greater Rochester Chamber has issued a new public statement following changes to New York State’s Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA), which were included in the recently voted state budget package. The announcement reflects the organization’s response to reforms that were approved by the New York State Senate and Assembly as part of the transportation and economic development budget bill.

In its statement, Greater Rochester Chamber President and CEO Bob Duffy highlighted what he described as a shift toward a more practical approach to energy policy. The chamber said the updated framework introduces adjustments to timelines and measurement methods, while also aligning certain protocols with international standards.

“Today, practicality and feasibility were prioritized with the changes passed to the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act — changes based in reality that utilize an all-of-the-above approach to energy to prioritize affordable and reliable power for our homes and businesses. By adjusting timelines and aligning measurement protocols with international standards, New York State is setting itself up for long-term success, keeping businesses here to invest in people, communities, and innovation. Greater Rochester Chamber is grateful to Governor Hochul for championing this effort, and to our partners in the legislature for their support for this common-sense policy reform.”

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The CLCPA, originally passed in 2019, has been one of New York’s central climate policies, setting long-term emissions targets and shaping energy transition goals across the state. The latest revisions, according to the chamber, are intended to balance environmental objectives with economic competitiveness and energy reliability concerns raised by business groups.

The chamber emphasized that the updated approach supports what it calls an “all-of-the-above” energy strategy, suggesting continued use of multiple energy sources as the state works toward its climate goals. Business leaders in the region have often expressed concern about rising energy costs and the potential impact of strict regulatory timelines on local industry and investment.

Greater Rochester Chamber also noted that it will continue monitoring developments as the FY27 New York State budget process moves forward. The organization said it plans to remain actively engaged in discussions affecting the Finger Lakes region’s economic environment, particularly policies that influence business growth, workforce development, and long-term investment.

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As the state moves ahead with implementing the revised CLCPA provisions, the chamber signaled that more analysis and communication will follow. It described its role as a key advocate for regional employers and said it will continue to provide updates on how the changes may affect businesses across Rochester and the wider upstate New York economy.

For now, the statement marks an early response from the business community to what lawmakers have framed as an important adjustment in the state’s broader climate and energy strategy.