Establishes the empire state sports and entertainment fund to create competitive financial incentives to attract sports and entertainment events in the state with an emphasis on economic development in upstate New York.
Impact
The implementation of this bill is expected to have a notable impact on the economic development landscape of New York State, particularly in upstate regions that may not typically attract major entertainment events. The bill includes provisions that require eligibility criteria for businesses or entities wishing to apply for funding from this newly established fund, and it emphasizes the need for compliance with state laws regarding worker protections and tax obligations. Hence, it seeks to ensure that any recipients of the fund uphold high standards of operation and contribution to the local economy.
Summary
Bill A09562 aims to bolster New York's competitive stance in attracting sports and entertainment events by establishing the 'Empire State Sports and Entertainment Fund.' This fund is envisioned as a mechanism to provide financial incentives for events that could otherwise be hosted in competing states, particularly those that are not regularly scheduled in New York, such as one-off concerts or special sporting events. By creating this fund, the bill positions New York to compete more effectively in securing high-profile events that could provide significant economic benefits to local communities.
Contention
Despite the potential benefits, the bill may face debates regarding the allocation of state resources towards entertainment and sports over other pressing social issues. Critics might argue that prioritizing financial incentives for entertainment could divert funds from essential public services or infrastructure projects. Additionally, questions may arise regarding the effectiveness of such incentives in genuinely attracting events and the transparency of the application and funding processes established in the bill.
Same As
Establishes the empire state sports and entertainment fund to create competitive financial incentives to attract sports and entertainment events in the state with an emphasis on economic development in upstate New York.
Establishes the empire state sports and entertainment fund to create competitive financial incentives to attract sports and entertainment events in the state with an emphasis on economic development in upstate New York.
Includes sporting events within the definition of places of public entertainment and amusement for purposes of wrongful refusal of admission to and ejection from places of public entertainment and amusement.
Authorizes the empire state development corporation to develop a public awareness campaign promoting businesses located in New York state with an emphasis on small businesses and the need to shop in downtown local areas; requires the creation of the Buy New York Online Networking Directory to connect purchasers with businesses located in New York.
Enacts the "fair concession pricing act" to require certain entertainment and sports venues constructed or operating under public financial benefit to implement fan-friendly concession pricing policies.
Enacts the "fair concession pricing act" to require certain entertainment and sports venues constructed or operating under public financial benefit to implement fan-friendly concession pricing policies.
Creates a special on-premises license for properties which are located within a designated industrial or economic zoning district, occupy not less than twenty thousand square feet of floor area, and are utilized for the purpose of hosting entertainment or cultural, social, or community events.