I am encouraged that Nassau County is firmly in the running for an Empire Zone designation. The job creation and tax cut incentives provided by the Empire Zone program have proven to be a boon to economic development throughout the state. As a member of the Assembly's Small Business Committee, I believe communities such as Roosevelt and Hempstead would especially benefit from the new jobs and economic revitalization.

But applying for an Empire Zone doesn't guarantee Nassau will be successful. The state will create only six new Empire Zones this year and with 16 counties vying for a designation, it is possible Nassau won't be tapped. That's why I support a bill (A.7230) that establishes an Empire Zone in every county across the state. My measure would level the playing field and give each county an equal opportunity to gain Empire Zone benefits.

The full Assembly has not yet considered this important legislation, but there is still time to act this year. In the meantime, I am committed to working with county officials to secure Nassau's designation and bring further economic development to our communities.