Staten Island Chamber of Commerce Releases 2026 State Legislative Policy Agenda
Staten Island, NY – March 27, 2026 – The Staten Island Chamber of Commerce today released its 2026 State Legislative Policy Agenda, outlining key priorities to support small businesses, strengthen the local economy, and ensure Staten Island receives equitable investment and policy consideration.
The full 2026 State Legislative Policy Agenda can be found here.
The agenda reflects input from the Chamber’s Small Business Committee and broader membership, focusing on the most pressing challenges facing Staten Island businesses, including rising costs, workforce needs, transportation limitations, and increasing pressures on day-to-day operations.
“Staten Island’s small businesses are facing real and growing challenges,” said Linda Baran, President & CEO of the Staten Island Chamber of Commerce. “This agenda reflects those realities and outlines policy recommendations to help businesses operate, grow, and remain competitive.”
The Chamber’s 2026 Policy Agenda is organized around four key priorities:
1. Reducing the Cost of Doing Business
Addressing rising expenses related to taxes, insurance, utilities, and compliance requirements, while advocating for policies that improve affordability and predictability for small businesses.
2. Strengthening Workforce Development
Expanding access to workforce training, career pathways, and talent pipelines that align with employer needs and support long-term economic growth.
3. Improving Transportation and Infrastructure
Advancing investments that improve mobility, reduce commute times, and enhance access to jobs and commercial corridors across Staten Island.
4. Enhancing Public Safety and Consumer Confidence
Supporting policies that protect businesses and customers, ad1. dress fraud and theft, and promote safe and vibrant commercial districts.
The agenda also highlights specific opportunities for Staten Island, including strategic redevelopment of key sites, improved transportation connectivity, and targeted support for small and neighborhood-based businesses.
“As an insurance broker working closely with Staten Island’s small businesses, I support this agenda’s focus on fraud enforcement and liability reform that can deliver real, lasting relief,” said Lauren Aquino of Alpha/Omega Coverage Corp, member of the Chamber’s Small Business Committee.
“It’s getting harder for small businesses to keep up with rising expenses and new requirements,” said Frank Scarangello, owner of SCARAN. “This agenda highlights the issues and the need to make it easier for businesses to operate and plan for the future.”
“Small businesses are a big part of what makes Staten Island special, but we’re dealing with more challenges than ever,” said Frank Wilkinson, owner of Rab’s Country Lanes. “This agenda highlights the issues and the importance of making sure businesses can stay open, grow, and continue to serve the community.”
The Staten Island Chamber of Commerce will share the agenda with State leaders and continue to advocate for policies that support small businesses and strengthen Staten Island’s economic future.