The Governor announced applications are now being accepted from small businesses that have successfully completed the pre-screening process to become certified for the COVID-19 Capital Costs Tax Credit Program, which supports companies that made investments to comply with emergency orders and regulations or to increase public safety in response to COVID-19. Eligible COVID-19-related costs include, but are not limited to:

• Supplies to disinfect or protect against COVID-19 transmission
• Costs associated with expanding, or defining space to accommodate social distancing
• HVAC equipment
• Expenses related to increased outdoor activity and outdoor space expansions
• Machinery and equipment to facilitate contactless sales

Tax credits will cover 50 percent of eligible costs, up to $50,000, for a maximum tax credit award of $25,000, and credits will be awarded on a first come first serve basis until program funds are depleted. Eligible businesses must operate a location in New York State, have 100 or fewer employees, $2.5 million or less of gross receipts in the 2021 tax year, and at least $2,000 in eligible costs between January 1, 2021 and December 31, 2022.

Applications will be accepted through March 31, 2023.

Governor Hochul said:

Governor Announces Empire State Teacher Residency Program

The Governor announced the launch of the Empire State Teacher Residency Program through the New York State Department of Labor. This program will provide matching funding for local public school districts and/or Boards of Cooperative Educational Services to create two-year residency opportunities for graduate-level K-12 teacher candidates. The program will provide $30 million in funding to subsidize master’s degree or teaching certification programs for qualified residency program candidates. The program will prioritize diversity among candidates and partnering mentors, with a particular focus on high-need subject areas and geographic locations facing shortages.

Governor Hochul said:

Governor Announces $30 Million to Expand Child Care Programs

The Governor announced that nearly $30 million has been awarded to help increase capacity at more than 400 existing state-licensed, registered, or permitted child care programs that are located in underserved areas of the state. Made available through the American Rescue Plan Act, the awards to 418 existing child care providers in underserved areas will help them build their programs; recruit, train and retain workers; and support their staff in accessing COVID-19 vaccines. In July, Governor Hochul announced more than $68 million to help establish 344 new child care programs in areas of the state considered child care deserts.

Governor Hochul said:

Candidates for Governor Debate

Governor Kathy Hochul and Rep. Lee Zeldin met Tuesday at Pace University in Manhattan for their first and only scheduled debate for governor ahead of the November 8 election. The debate can be watched in its entirety here.