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State agencies were late 87% of the time in approving contracts with not-for-profit providers last year, according to a report by State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. This is an increase from 2012, when 78% were approved late. The Comptroller’s report recommends that state agencies Make prompt contracting a priority to reduce costs to the state and not-for-profits; Pay prompt contracting interest with the first payment due after the start of a late contract; and Re-align contract start dates to reflect the time required for the procurement process. The report can be viewed at osc.state.ny.us.

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The state Assembly voted to ban hydraulic fracturing for natural gas for three years, but that’s as far as the bill is likely to go. Yesterday’s 89-34 vote in favor of the ban on fracking could be symbolic, since the Senate isn’t expected to consider the legislation before lawmakers adjourn later this week. Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver said there’s no reason to rush a decision on fracking before its effects on health and the environment are better understood. New York has had a moratorium on fracking since an environmental review was launched in 2008.

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Governor Cuomo announced an agreement with legislative leaders on a bill that will cut requirements on microbreweries & farm breweries, and rolling back restrictions regarding the marketing of craft products.   New York Brewers association President David Katlowski state that there is a movement among New York farmers to plant barley & hops again:

(David Katlowski 6-17-14)

The new legislation to help farm breweries & microbreweries is a result of the State’s 2nd Wine, Beer, Spirits, and Cider Summit, held this past April.

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State Police arrested 28-year-old Cory Nabinger of Harpursville for Driving While Intoxicated, following a motor vehicle accident on Tunnel Road in Fenton.  An investigation determined that Nabinger was intoxicated when he crashed; He refused to submit to a breath test & was issued tickets returnable to the Town of Fenton Court on July 10th.

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Lower wage employees from across the state are in Albany today to call on state lawmakers to raise New York’s minimum wage. Supporters of the raise want to see the wage increase from $8 per hour to $10.10 per hour. The advocates are also calling for the minimum wage in New York City be raised to $13.13 per hour, and allow future increases based on inflation. It’s unclear if lawmakers will vote on an increase.

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