Rochester Business Alliance Vice President of Public Policy Chris Wiest joined Bruce Herman, deputy commissioner for Workforce Development, and Empire State Development Chairman Dennis Mullen at a news conference July 16 outlining initiatives aimed at helping businesses weather the recession.

"With statewide unemployment levels reaching a 33-year high, individuals and employers need all the help they can get," said Wiest. "The programs announced today by the Department of Labor and Empire State Development Corporation will help individuals stay employed and employers maintain a workforce that will allow them to be well-positioned for an economic rebound."

Two of the programs cited were:
Shared Work Program, which allows companies to avoid layoffs by reducing the employee hours and having those workers apply for partial unemployment benefits to compensate for lost pay. For more information, call (518) 457-5807.

Work Opportunity Tax Credits, a federal program administered by state Labor, that provides credits to businesses that hire eligible workers, including assistance recipients, veterans, ex-felons, summer youth. Area businesses interested in this program should call 888-4-NYSDOL (888-469-7365).

Please visit www.labor.ny.gov for more information.