[vendtalk] Expanded BEP in New York

[Charlie Richardson]

    In 1992 when the mini Randolph-Sheppard was passed in New York there were exemptions to the priority.  State Universities, Corrections, Thruway and population of 400 or less employees were not covered.

Two years ago we had drafted legislation removing those exemptions.  At first there was also an inclusion of vendors into the state benefit programs, but with too much in one bill we figured we should concentrate on what's more important, more business opportunities for blind people.

The bill passed both houses this year and the governor just signed it in today.

There is also a new inclusion for the priority of all airports in the state.

This is huge and I'd like to thank all involved that have made this happen and also the governor for supporting it.