For the third straight week, members of the Legislature’s Democratic Majority Caucus have refused to allow a vote on the Minority Caucus proposal to get money in the hands of restaurant owners looking to expand their outdoor dining areas as the seasons change.

Minority Leader Lorigo motioned for a vote at Thursday’s legislative session and the motion was blocked by Democratic legislators. The proposal, introduced several weeks ago, would allocate $1 million in CARES Act funding to help restaurants enhance, expand, or create outdoor dining space that can accommodate customers in cold weather.

Minority Leader Lorigo said, “There is no need for partisan politics when it comes to helping small businesses. We proposed this plan several weeks ago and have stressed that time is running out if we want to help these restaurants that are still forced to operate at limited capacity. Our proposal would get money in the hands of restaurant owners as soon as possible. I’ve yet to hear a good reason why this isn’t something we should consider immediately. If we don’t do something in the coming days, bars and restaurants may be forced to close their doors permanently. This legislative body needs to come together to help struggling businesses in Erie County. While I’m disappointed in today’s outcome, I will keep fighting on behalf of small business owners.”

Legislator Mills said, “There’s no reason to wait on a plan that would help restaurants. Everyone can agree that they need the assistance. It’s a shame my colleagues in the Majority Caucus won’t budge on this. There is not one restaurant in Erie County that doesn’t need our help right now.”

Legislator Todaro said, “As elected leaders, we need to help the people we represent, and that includes small businesses like restaurants. I’ve heard from many restaurant owners in my district who would be eager to apply for this funding once it’s approved. Time is running out and the weather is getting colder by the week. We could have had this program up and running by now. Unfortunately, the Majority Caucus won’t make business relief a top priority.”

Legislator Rath said, “While this isn’t a long-term solution for restaurants, it would help them right now as the seasons are changing. Outdoor dining has been a huge asset to these establishments who are forced to continue operating at a limited capacity. We are calling on our colleagues across the aisle to put politics aside and come together to address the needs of our small business community.”