As has been mentioned throughout this site, the current business environment in New York City is bleak, caused in part by the City's 20% property tax increase, its unprecedented 150% increase in the cigarette tax, and aggressive fining by the Department of Consumer Affairs.  Given this milieu, we don't understand the rationale for increasing the number of vendor permits  by over 55% and allowing them access to previously restricted streets.  Though hardworking, vendors do not pay the rent or taxes that small businesses do and, therefore, allowing their proliferation will result in unlevel playing field.  There are certainly problems within the myriad vendor codes that need to be addressed.  However, fixing these vague statutes does not necessitate expanding an activity that is harmful to small business.  We believe the legislation should put aside immediately.

Click here for articles on Intro 621, a bill that would unnecessarily expand the number of street vendors, and how it has, almost paradoxically, galvanized opposition within the administration, small business and vendor communities.

We have listed our press releases dealing with the issues surrounding the the proposed Intro 621.  View and print these positions papers here.

The Neighborhood Retail Alliance has crafted a number of memoranda dealing with the all the issues surrounding the ill-conceived attempt to open up all city streets for vendors and increase the number of permits.  View and print these positions papers here.