SC New York News

U.S. Rep. Marc Molinaro (R-NY-19) has introduced the Think DIFFERENTLY Small Business Accessibility Act, a bipartisan bill aimed at assisting small businesses in Upstate New York in making modifications to accommodate customers and employees with disabilities. The initiative, in partnership with U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-TX-30), seeks to expand the current Disabled Access Credit provided by the Internal Revenue Service to a broader range of businesses.

Molinaro's bill proposes an extension of the tax credit to small businesses with up to 100 full-time employees or $3.5 million in annual revenue, a significant increase from the current limitations. By doing so, more small businesses in Upstate New York will have the opportunity to enhance their facilities to better serve individuals with disabilities.

In his statement, Rep. Molinaro acknowledged the impact of the Disabled Access Credit on small businesses, stating, “The Disabled Access Credit has helped small businesses make modifications that open the door to employees and customers with disabilities. By expanding the Disabled Tax Credit, my bipartisan bill will make more small businesses eligible to receive federal support for accommodations.”

Rep. Jasmine Crockett highlighted the importance of small businesses in providing economic opportunities for individuals with disabilities, emphasizing the bill's role in fostering inclusivity. She noted, “This bill helps small business owners extend this ladder to workers with disabilities, allowing employers to gain access to a talented pool of motivated workers and removing barriers to entry for customers and clients with disabilities.”

Support for the bill also came from SourceAmerica President and CEO Richard Belden, who emphasized the significance of the Disabled Access Tax Credit in ensuring equal access for individuals with disabilities in businesses across the country. Belden stated, “This legislation creates a unique opportunity for businesses to hire more people with disabilities, including veterans, who continue to be underutilized part of the American workforce.”

Stacey Duncan, CEO of the Leadership Alliance of Binghamton, expressed gratitude for Molinaro's efforts in promoting inclusive hiring practices and supporting individuals with developmental disabilities. Duncan highlighted the potential impact of the ThinkDIFFERENTLY Small Business Accessibility Act on small businesses, stating, “If passed, the ThinkDIFFERENTLY Small Business Accessibility Act would allow businesses that do not currently qualify for the existing Disabled Access Credit to have the funds necessary to invest in critical infrastructure of this kind, enabling them to employ disabled individuals and better serve their customers.”

The bill has also received endorsement from the National Disability Rights Network (NDRN), further solidifying its importance in promoting accessibility and inclusivity within small businesses.