In an effort to help small businesses in New York State comply with clean air mandates, State Senator Michael Balboni reminds businesses that the Small Business Assistance Program (SBAP) is available to offer free, on-site technical assistance services to help them comply with federal and state air pollution requirements.

Administered through the New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation (EFC), the SBAP has helped thousands of small businesses in New York State come into compliance with environmental standards. The SBAP provides free, confidential technical assistance via a toll-free hotline, on-site environmental audits, technical workshops, and publications. They are available to help businesses:

* Determine if environmental requirements apply to them;

* Understand what their obligations are under the law;

* Determine how to achieve compliance through pollution prevention, material or process changes, and/or control options;

* Complete necessary permit applications, reporting and record keeping.

Types of businesses who could benefit from the SBAP's services include dry cleaners, printers, furniture and plastics manufacturers, tire retreaders, metal finishers, solvent degreasers and electronic manufacturers.

For more information, please call the SBAP at 1-800-780-7227. All calls are by law completely confidential.

"The SBAP serves as a valuable resource for all small businesses who have questions about or need assistance with environmental requirements and pollution prevention," said Senator Balboni. "I encourage all business owners to take advantage of the SBAP's resources and expertise."