New York State Assembly

Assembly Minority Leader Brian M. Kolb (R,C,I-Canandaigua) today issued the following statement on Assembly Bill A.4665-A - legislation that allows Ontario County to apply to the federal government for designation as a Foreign-Trade Zone. Counties in the Finger Lakes Region will benefit from this measure to streamline the customs process, create more jobs and improve the level of efficiency in the marketplace.

"This legislation empowers the Finger Lakes Region to take advantage of the numerous benefits of a Foreign-Trade Zone and will stimulate greater economic development opportunities. I'm proud to have sponsored legislation that will help Ontario County establish, operate and maintain Foreign-Trade Zones (FTZ) within the county and in Livingston, Wayne, Seneca, Yates and Steuben counties. This program will open new opportunities for Finger Lakes businesses to sell their goods faster, cheaper and easier in a global market and begin reaping the economic rewards of international trade.

I have heard from many business owners in Ontario County who recognize that having access to FTZ benefits would make it possible for them to continue to do business, keep quality jobs in our area and encourage the development of other businesses. If Ontario County is designated as a U.S. Foreign-Trade Zone, local manufacturers can take advantage of cost savings, global competitiveness and deferral of duty payments on merchandise until the finished products enter the marketplace. Many local businesses are poised and ready to take full advantage of the proposed FTZ benefits and make the Finger Lakes area a true competitor in the global market.

I am proud to join the Ontario County Board of Supervisors, the Ontario County Economic Development Corporation and Seneca County in recognizing the need for FTZ status in the Finger Lakes area. This program will give local businesses and manufacturers the tools they need to keep quality jobs in our area and sell their products all over the world."