March/April2016 Newsletter by Greater Rochester Chamber

Voice of Business Newsletter N l tt March/April 2016

Employers Weigh in on Proposed $15 Minimum Wage

reater Rochester Chamber of Commerce hosted an employer forum to hear from economists and employers and to share results of a survey and member feedback on a proposed $15 an hour minimum wage in New York State. After reviewing results of the survey, Rochester Chamber concluded that it cannot support such a state mandate on employers.

a mandated statewide $15 minimum wage would be a counterproductive policy with a negative impact. It will disrupt labor markets, reduce job creation, drive up prices, and chill the business climate.”

TruForm Manufacturing President Tyrone Reaves told those at the forum that every business would love to pay a livable wage, but a mandated $15 an hour minimum wage is not the way to get there. Reaves said, “The answer is we have to get people from no skills to low skills to middle skills. Training is really the answer. You phase that training up. If a person is someone who has a skill set that is worth nine dollars an hour, how can you pay them $15? Business just doesn’t work that way. I would love to have our legislators go to our customers and say, ‘Can you please let Tyrone and TruForm charge a little more so he can pay a higher wage?’ It doesn’t work that way. It never will. I think the fundamental premise of business is you can only pay based on the value of what something is worth.”

Rochester Chamber Vice President of Public Policy and Advocacy Chris Wiest said, “Nearly half of those we surveyed said they will be forced to change their hiring philosophies and practices as a result. One third said they don’t expect a great impact. It’s a complicated issue. Clearly there is a lot of concern by employers on how they’re going to afford to pay a $15 minimum wage.” The forum featured members of the local state legislative delegation, Rochester Chamber member company representatives, and the panel of economists and employers who shared personal stories on how an increased minimum wage will impact employers, employees, and their customers. Empire Center for Public Policy President E.J. McMahon started off the forum by telling legislators and employers that Empire Center research projects the loss of 200,000 jobs in New York should a $15 minimum wage go into effect. McMahon said, “On balance,

in terms of lost jobs, lost opportunities, particularly for people who come in at the low end of the skill spectrum, are really signiﬁcant. Not only that, but it raises costs, often for the same group of people that you’re trying to beneﬁt. It’s really a mixed message.”

Center for Governmental Research Chief Economist Dr. Kent Gardner called a $15 minimum wage “a bridge too far.” Gardner said, “Most, I think, would agree that a modest increase in the minimum wage is not something that’s catastrophic for the economy, but there’s a point at which the minimum wage increase becomes too high. The consequences

Rewarding Solutions President Betty Richardson also warned about the consequences of wage compression. Richardson said, “Most organizations have pay systems that provide higher pay for higher levels of skills, experience, and responsibility. This increase of the entry rate triggers the (Continued on p. 3)

We have an exciting events lineup for 2016! Visit our website’s events calendar for more details!

inside AIM Photonics Leaders Seek Participants

Travel Abroad to Austria, Cuba this Fall

Be Proactive: Active Shooter Planning

New Rule on Overtime Pay

2015-2016 Board Officers Rob Sands, Chairman of the Board Constellation Brands, Inc. John Pitton,Vice Chair Bank of America Brian Flanagan, Second Vice Chair, Secretary, and Treasurer Nixon Peabody LLP

Senior Staff Robert J. Duffy President and CEO Bill Anderson Sr. director, support services Bill.Anderson@GreaterRochesterChamber.com

Colleen DiMartino Chief of Staff

From the CEO

he ninth annual Siena College Upstate New York Business Leader Survey found a 15 point drop in CEO confidence. The survey showed that most in our region expect the same or worsening business conditions for 2016. Based upon feedback from Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce members, I believe the poll accurately captures the sentiments of a majority of our CEOs. This is equivalent to what other chambers are hearing, as well. People who run businesses and organizations feel that they are in a valley with pressures running downhill on them from all directions. They have pressures with their markets and sales, they faced the recession of 2008 and may face another one in the next couple of years, and it seems like more often than not, new pressures are placed on them through taxes, mandates, regulations, and other new pieces of legislation. This creates an environment that no doubt makes business harder to conduct in our state.

Colleen.DiMartino@GreaterRochesterChamber.com

Kevin Donahue Director, membership

Kevin.Donahue@GreaterRochesterChamber.com

Kathy Richmond Sr. director, human resource services

Kathy.Richmond@GreaterRochesterChamber.com

Nina Shelton Director, group health insurance

Nina.Shelton@GreaterRochesterChamber.com

Dan Smith Sr. director, membership and communications

Dan.Smith@GreaterRochesterChamber.com

Tammy Stefani Director of accounting services

Tammy.Stefani@GreaterRochesterChamber.com

Chris Wiest Vice president of public policy and advocacy Chris.Wiest@GreaterRochesterChamber.com

Voice of Business is the official newsletter of Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce, published at 150 State St., Rochester, NY 14614. Articles printed are for information only and are not intended to render legal advice.

March/April 2016

In my four years as lieutenant governor, I worked on behalf of Governor Cuomo to recruit and retain businesses in New York. I have heard hundreds of CEOs discussing their frustrations about conducting business here. Their top concerns are taxes and regulations that exist across federal, state, and local agencies that make doing business harder here. The situation between New York State and local governments and business is equivalent to a marriage or a relationship. If there is not sufficient communication, at some point one person walks away. We’re seeing that right now with business. I find it fascinating that sometimes, people who have been in business for decades have never had a personal visit by someone in government just asking how they can help. When visits come, they are usually for punitive or enforcement purposes as opposed to showing up and asking what they can do to make things better. The first question I ask when visiting Rochester Chamber members across the nine-county Finger Lakes region is, “how can we better serve you?” Government at all levels has to do that same thing. Governor Cuomo has taken many positive steps in the forms of a property tax cap, small business tax reductions, and the easing of some regulations. While many are quick

to blame him and the current legislature for the problems facing business in New York, it is important to keep in mind that the troubles started decades ago. Some ill-advised decisions that on their face looked great have created many severe unintended consequences for business owners over the years.

Bob Duffy

We all share a role in changing the state. A suggestion that I have is that before any legislation that may negatively impact business is brought to the floor for a vote, legislators from around the state should convene not only public hearings, but also private meetings with business leaders to ask for their feedback. Public hearings are often for show. I think it’s much more effective to go to people and ask them privately how they believe a piece of legislation would impact them. What may not impact downstate may have dramatic negative implications upstate. You have to look at things regionally. We have to do a much better job of getting people’s input. Rochester Chamber recently held an employer forum on the proposed $15 minimum wage. No one argues that making more money can help people pull themselves out of poverty and raise their quality of life. However, you can’t do it artificially. At the forum, we heard from business owners who clearly care about their employees, but they said if an employee’s skill is worth nine dollars an hour, they can’t afford to pay them $15. Where is that going to come from? Many of these employers already struggle week to week to make payroll. You can’t advantage a small number at the disadvantage of the majority. Many of these government decisions do just that. Often, various pieces of legislation are put forth to garner favor for support in future elections. It is outreach. It is communication. It is gathering real input before rushing to pass a law and holding a news conference claiming credit. After news conferences, back slaps, and kudos fade away, we are often left with some dire economic situations across our state and nation.

Voice of Business AIM Photonics Leaders Recruit Rochester-area Companies

merican Institute for Manufacturing Integrated Photonics CEO Michael Liehr and Deputy Government and Industry Outreach Executive Tino Treiber appeared in Rochester to share information about AIM Photonics membership and to recruit interested companies to participate. Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce welcomed about 200 invited guests to the presentation held at Legacy Tower, the future AIM Photonics headquarters. Rochester Chamber CEO Bob Duffy serves as AIM Photonics Leadership Council Chairman. AIM Photonics seeks to establish a technology, business, and education framework for industry, government, and academia to accelerate the transition of integrated photonic solutions from innovation to manufacturing-ready deployment in systems spanning commercial and defense applications. Photonics is the science of using and controlling photons, which is the smallest unit of light. Photonics allow for faster transfer of data than traditional electronic circuits. Integrated photonics allow

designers and manufacturers to put thousands of photonic components such as lasers, detectors, and optical interconnects together on a single chip. In describing AIM Photonics opportunities for Rochester-area organizations, Liehr said, “There is a whole group of companies here that used to supply Kodak, Xerox, and the like. We have to come up with a similar model. We will most likely first have to bring entities here from the outside and then see if we can use the companies that exist here in the same model. We are trying to bring companies here from the west coast and abroad to open up an office or bring a factory here.” Liehr expects Rochester to contribute to AIM Photonics in the assembly, test, and packaging areas of manufacturing. He added that it will likely take five years for AIM Photonics to become self-sustaining. AIM Photonics membership is available on a number of levels depending upon an organization’s capacity and interest. Visit www.AIMPhotonics.com for more information.

Employers Weigh in on Proposed $15 Minimum (cont.) need to raise all staff pay to maintain an appropriate pay differential, or there will be pay compression. For example, let’s say you have an entry level assembler, a level two assembler, a group leader, a supervisor, and a manager. If you raise the entry level assembler pay by a proposed 67 percent, you must increase the pay of each higher level.” YMCA of Greater Rochester Vice President of Human Resources Fernan Cepero told legislators that a mandated $15 minimum wage would have a $5 million a year impact on his organization. Cepero said, “It’s significant. We’re encouraging legislators to rethink a $15 minimum wage and to consider what our revenue stream is as opposed to a forprofit organization. We can’t readily raise our rates. We are officially a charity, so we don’t turn anybody away. There is going to be a significant impact if a $15 minimum wage happens. We may have to look at a reduction in jobs and services.”

Reaves wrapped up his thoughts by saying that he cannot run his business based on emotion. Reaves said, “The skill set I see on a regular basis in my company is not close to $15 an hour. We work very hard to try to get them there. We are working with a skill set that is nowhere near the livable wage that we would love to pay, no matter how much our heart wants to pay it. My business doesn’t really care what my heart says. I can conduct business in an ethical way, in a heartfelt way, in a compassionate way, but my profit and loss isn’t going to allow me to manage that business in that heartfelt way.” To learn more about the Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce minimum wage survey, or to share your thoughts or concerns, contact Chris Wiest at (585) 256-4626 or Chris.Wiest@GreaterRochesterChamber. com.

New Member Profile: O-AT-KA Milk Products

ochester Chamber welcomed new member company O-AT-KA Milk Products in January and had a moment to get acquainted with David Crisp, EVP Business Development to learn more about this business. Tell us about your company: O-AT-KA has been an innovative dairy cooperative since 1959, now employing 350+ employees at our manufacturing facility and offices in Batavia. We help our customers capture market opportunities and manufacture their dairy and non-dairy products such as ready-to-drink coffee, protein drinks, nutritional beverages, butter, and dairy ingredients. We have the expertise and technology to create and test formulas, refine existing products, and provide ingredients and packaging. What prompted you to join the chamber? Rochester Chamber’s passion for business growth within the region compliments O-AT-KA’s commitment to our owners, customers, employees, and community. We look forward to making meaningful connections with fellow members. What business/economic challenges are you currently facing? While we have successfully continued to broaden our customer and product base, we will find challenges in keeping up with our growth rate, competitive technologies, and overcoming legislative roadblocks to export. What is your business outlook for 2016? As global demand for dairy products continues to increase, we will remain committed to focusing our efforts on our customers’ needs and furthering our company culture of passion and continuous improvement.

www.GreaterRochesterChamber.com

Voice of Business Chinese Investor Delegation to Visit Rochester

he Rochester-China Business Exchange, a spinoff of the 2016 SelectUSA Investment Summit, comes to Rochester June 16-18. Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce is working with the U.S. Department of Commerce, New York State, and the University of Rochester’s Center for Emerging and Innovative Sciences to make this visit possible. SelectUSA seeks to highlight the many advantages the United States offers as a location for business and investment. The exchange presents an opportunity for

Chinese investors to meet with corporate executives, government officials, economic development organizations, and academic leaders in the Rochester region prior to the SelectUSA summit in Washington, DC. The designation of Rochester as AIM Photonics headquarters has drawn the interest of investors from China who are looking at opportunities in optics, photonics, and imaging as well as printing, food and beverage manufacturing, life sciences, biomass and biofuels, energy innovation, materials, and real estate.

If you are interested in participating in the Rochester-China Business Exchange this June, please contact University of Rochester Center for Emerging and Innovative Sciences Deputy Director of Business Development Paul Ballentine at Paul.Ballentine@Rochester.edu or (585) 273-2642.

Travel to Austria (Oktoberfest) and Cuba with Rochester Chamber A Taste of Tyrol: Innsbruck, Austria and Oktoberfest This nine day, seven night September trip with Rochester Chamber travel partner Central Holidays takes us to Innsbruck, Austria, two-time home of the Olympic Winter Games. Best known for its rich cultural heritage and only a stone’s throw away from Italy and Germany, Innsbruck serves as our home base for sightseeing and shopping day trips. A highlight of the adventure includes a drive down the autobahn to Munich, Germany and the legendary Oktoberfest. Prost! Click here for the full itinerary, pricing, and booking

instructions. Click here to make your trip reservation online with the group booking number B002061. Cuba, the New Beginning: A Rochester Chamber Trip The restoration of U.S. diplomatic ties with Cuba has allowed our travel partner, Central Holidays, to offer this special glimpse inside the island nation’s history and culture. On the eight day, seven night trip in November, travel around Cuba to enjoy people-topeople interactions and unusual stops such as the seaside town of Caibarien, the Sugar Mill Museum, the colonial town of Remedios, the Che Guevara Museum and Mausoleum,

a tobacco plantation and cigar factory, visits with artists and a Cuban baseball player, Hemingway’s Farm, Old Havana, and more. Click here for the full itinerary, pricing, and booking instructions. Click here to make your trip reservation online with the group booking number B002060. Attend the No-obligation Information Session March 2 Learn more about our upcoming travel adventures to Austria and Cuba at a noobligation information session March 2 5:306:30 p.m. at the Rochester Chamber office. Click here for details/registration.

Rochester Chamber welcomes its new members A Neumann & Associates, LLC................www.NeumannAssociates.com MediSked, LLC .............................................www.medisked.com Micro Precision Components, Inc. ...........www.gompc.net Abtex Corporation ...................................www.abtex.com New York Patriot Construction (dba Patriot Construction) ARTISANworks .........................................www.ARTISANworks.net ...www.nypatriot.com ATM Rochester LLC ................................www.atmrochester.com O-AT-KA Milk Products Cooperative, Inc. ..www.oatkamilk.com Biomaxx, Inc. ..............................................www.DryCreekpellets.com Operation Brain Freeze (dba Dairy Queen) Blackhawk Emergency Management Group, LLC ...www.OperationBrainFreeze.com ...www.blackhawkemg.org Orolia USA (dba Spectracom)...................www.spectracom.com Bob Johnson Chevrolet ...........................www.BobJohnsonChevy.com Precision Optical Transceivers ...................www.precisionot.com CaterTrax ...................................................www.catertrax.com ProNexus, LLC ..............................................www.pronexusllc.com Clark Moving & Storage, Inc. ..................www.clarkmoving.com RJM Media, LLC .............................................www.robmarriage.com Cobblestone Capital Advisors ...............www.cobblestonecap.com Rochester Museum & Science Center .....www.rmsc.org eLogic ..........................................................www.elogic.com Ronco Communications ..............................www.ronco.net Emerge ........................................................www.goemerge.com Seneca Commodities, Inc. Finger Lakes Performing Provider System..www.flpps.org Special Care Systems, LLC ..........................www.specialcaresys.com Focused 401 (k) Partners ........................focused401kpartners.com Trevett Cristo Salzer & Andolina PC ........www.trevettcristo.com Giraph Works LLC.....................................www.GiraphWorks.com Harris, Chesworth, Johnstone & Welch, LLP ...www.harrischesworth.com U.S. Ceiling Corp. ...........................................www.usceiling.com Unicon .................................................www.uniconrochester.com Hilton Garden Inn Rochester/University & Medical Center ...www.rochesteruniversity.hgi.com Upstate Door, Inc. ..........................................www.upstatedoor.com Waste Harmonics ...........................................www.wasteharmonics.com Lumalon LLC ...............................................www.lumalon.com LVW Advisors LLC ....................................www.lvwadvisors.com M.O.T. Intermodal Shipping USA, Inc. .....www.motintermodal.com *Company listed in blue denotes our Partner Member*

March/April 2016

Connecting Business Rochester Chamber offers a variety of events each month. For more photos, visit our Facebook page. The YouTube logo next to the photos denotes a video posting on our YouTube channel.

Speed Networking moved its venue to the Hilton Garden Inn Rochester Downtown, proving to be a great location for this event.

Rochester Chamber hosted an AIM Photonics informational presentation with AIM Photonics CEO Michael Liehr and Tino Treiber of SUNY Poly.

Paul Speranza unveiled the “My Reminder” Campaign, developed by the High Blood Pressure Collaborative.

Partner member Nixon Peabody LLP presented Employment Law Updates to a full house.

Chamber Business Rounds: Construction panel featured The Pike Company, Gallina Development, Bergmann Associates, and LaBella Associates.

Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce CEO Bob Duffy served as keynote speaker at the Rochester Area Business Ethics Foundation’s annual Honor Roll event.

Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce’s Health Care Initiative met to discuss the High Blood Pressure Advocacy Strategy.

Speed Networking returned for an evening session of making connections. Thank you to our sponsor Avani Technology Solutions!

The Opportunities in Canada: A Business Briefing discussion featured Consul General of Canada John Prato.

Policy Matters: An Evening with Monroe County Executive Cheryl Dinolfo

www.GreaterRochesterChamber.com

Voice of Business Upcoming Affiliate Events

Spaull, Wolk Receive Women’s Council ATHENA Awards

reater Rochester Chamber of Commerce is made up of employers big and small, in just about every industry imaginable. While our programs and events are designed for all, we recognize that there are times when employers and employees want to be among a smaller group that shares their specific business issues. Here are some of our affiliates’ upcoming events: Associated New York State Food Processors nyfoodprocessors.org Greater Rochester Quality Council • March 23 - Performance Excellence Forum • April 7-8 - Quality for Leaders • April 28 - Annual Showcase and Award Ceremony

The Women’s Council, a Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce affiliate, presented Center for Youth Executive Director and Rochester City Councilperson Elaine Spaull with its 30th annual ATHENA Award. Melanie Wolk, Partner at Trevett Cristo Salzer & Andolina, P.C., took home the Women’s Council’s second annual ATHENA Young Professional Award. The ATHENA Young Professional Award recognizes emerging leaders in the 30 to 45 year old range who demonstrate excellence, creativity, and initiative in their business or profession.

The ATHENA Award is given annually by the Women’s Council to a professional female leader who has demonstrated significant achievements in business, community service, and the professional advancement of women.

PRESENTS

Essential Habits of Trusted Leaders

by Gregg Lederman Highly-acclaimed speaker, best selling author and CEO of Brand Integrity

April 27, 2016

www.grqc.org

PRESENTS

Essential of Trusted Leaders Small Business Council of Rochester SponsoredHabits by: • March 8 - Small Business Advocacy Day by Gregg Lederman Gregg Lederman has worked with thousands of business leaders to implement a sustainable engagement solution - one that Trip to Albany goes beyond rewards and “thank you” programs, and positions their companies become even better places work, Highly-acclaimed speaker,tobest selling author and CEO of to Brand Integrity • March 9 - Boot Camp: Motivate Your ultimately creating customers for life. Millennials as the “Highest Performing April 27,“Essential 2016Habits of Trusted During the Rochester TRENDS event, Gregg will be sharing his most sought-after keynote, Leaders,” based on his New York Times and USA Today best-selling book, ENGAGED!: Outbehave Your Competition to Create Workforce in America” Customers for Life. • April 14 - Boot Camp: Protecting Your Gregg will provide the audience with the tools to: Data and Keeping the Bad Guys Out Sponsored by:  Understand the realities of employee engagement, how it impacts their workforce, and what to do to improve it 

www.rochestersbc.com

Uncover and leverage the three primary drivers that motivate employees: Respect, Relevance, and Relationship Master an Essential Habit tohas become more effectiveofand trusted leader Gregg Lederman workeda with thousands business leaders to implement a sustainable engagement solution - one that

beyondmotivated rewards and “thank you” programs, and positions companies to engagement, become even better places work, Event attendees goes will leave and equipped to start their team on their a path for more creating an to even better At this Rochester TRENDS event, ultimately creating customers for life. place to work and, ultimately, keeping customers for life.

Rochester Hispanic Business Gregg shares hisevent, most sought-after During the Rochester TRENDS Gregg will be sharing his most sought-after keynote, “Essential Habits of Trusted The results speakLeaders,” for themselves: based on his New York Times and USA Today best-selling book, ENGAGED!: Outbehave Your Competition to Create Association keynote, “Essential of Trusted Customers for Life.  Gregg’s clients have experienced a more than Habits 68% increase in over the two years (based on Integrity’s • March 15 - Lunch Series with Laura employee engagement based on the histools New York GreggLeaders,” will provide thelast audience with to:Brand Engaged Index™).  Understand the realities of employee engagement, how it impacts their workforce, and what to do to improve it Stradley Times and USA Today  More than 65% of Gregg’s been notedbest-selling on “best to employees: Respect, Relevance, and Relationship  Uncover and clients leveragehave the three primary drivers thatplaces motivate  Master an Essential Habit to become a more effective and work” lists, either in their region, industry, or on the Fortune 100Your Besttrusted leader • April 19 - Lunch Series with Art Roberts book, “ENGAGED!: Outbehave

Companies to Work For® annual ranking. Event attendees will leave motivated and equipped to start their team on a path for more engagement, creating an even better

Competition to Create Customers for

Date: Wednesday, April 27, 2016 place to work and, ultimately, keeping customers for life. When he’s not presenting, Gregg works with his team at Brand Integrity, Life.” The results speak for themselves: serving clients across the nation in over 25 different industries. Brand Time: 7:30-9:30 am  complements Gregg’s clients have experienced a more 68% increase in Integrity’s solution existing HR systems bythan providing a unique employee engagement overclients the lastcreate two years (based and on Brand Integrity’s blend of consulting and technology to help a culture Location: Joseph A. Floreano Rochester The Women’s Council EventIndex™). attendees will leave motivated environment where Engaged employees can become more engaged. Brand Integrity’s Riverside Convention Center  More than 65% of Gregg’s clients have been noted on “best places to • April 18 - Young Women of Distinction and quantify equipped to start their team on approach helps companies their showorthe ona keyBest work” lists, either in theirculture region,and industry, on impact the Fortune 100 business results. Cost: $45/seat and $400/table of 10 Awards path for more engagement, creating Companies to Work For® annual ranking. Date: Wednesday, April 27, 2016 www.RBAWomenscouncil.org better place Whenan he’seven not presenting, Gregg works to withwork his teamand, at Brand Integrity,

www.rochesterhba.org

www.gregglederman.com

serving clients across the nation in over 25 different industries. Brand TO REGISTER Time: 7:30-9:30 am ultimately, keeping customers for life. a unique CLICK HERE Integrity’s solution complements existing HR systems by providing blend of consulting and technology to help clients create a culture and Location: Joseph A. Floreano Rochester environment where employees can become more engaged. Brand Integrity’s Riverside Convention Center approach helps companies quantify their culture and show the impact on key business results. Cost: $45/seat and $400/table of 10

March/April 2016

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CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Public Policy Members Weigh in on Minimum Wage and Paid Family Leave By Chris Wiest Vice President of Public Policy and Advocacy

he state legislative session is in full swing, and several key issues have risen to the forefront for employers. Chief among these are a proposed $15 New York State minimum wage and a paid family leave program, both presented in Governor Cuomo’s 2016 Executive Budget. To gain a better understanding of how these issues might impact employers, Rochester Chamber recently introduced its new “Policy Pulse” survey tool. Policy Pulse surveys request member feedback on significant legislative or policy issues of interest to employers. This information, in turn, helps Rochester Chamber develop its advocacy positions. Below are highlights from the minimum wage and paid family leave surveys. A total of 204 respondents from a broad cross-section of member companies completed our minimum wage employer survey. Highlights include: • 50% of respondents estimated that a $15 minimum wage would have a moderate to significant financial impact on their organization. • 46% said they would hire fewer new employees, 45% said they would reexamine and/or reduce employee benefits, while 31% said they would eliminate jobs. • 31% forecasted no significant changes, 30% believed they would need to increase automation to reduce labor costs, and 30% predicted they would need to increase prices. • 67% replied that there would be no positive benefits to the proposal. Others predicted improved morale, more money in consumers’ hands, improved retention, and a stronger candidate pool. Click here for full survey results.

In addition to this survey, Rochester Chamber hosted a Minimum Wage Employer Forum on January 15. The forum included members of the local state legislative delegation, Rochester Chamber member company representatives, economists and an employer panel that shared information on how an increased minimum wage would impact employers, employees, and customers. To ensure the employer perspective was heard, Greater Rochester Chamber sent copies of the minimum wage survey results and forum presentation slides to all members of our senate and assembly delegation. Click here to view forum slides.

Rochester Chamber requested feedback on possible changes to the NYS Paid Family Leave Act. These modifications were derived from currently operating paid leave models in three other states.

A second issue of key concern to employers is paid family leave. The NYS Paid Family Leave Act was introduced by Governor Cuomo in his 2016 budget. If enacted, this legislation would provide 12 weeks of job-protected, employee-funded paid leave per year for qualifying events. We surveyed members and received 161 responses from organizations employing nearly 55,000 individuals in the Rochester/Finger Lakes region. Highlights include:

• 64% supported decreasing the length of time given for paid leave from 12 weeks to 6 weeks. Click here for full survey results.

• 48% did not support the act as proposed, 29% were unsure, and 22% were in support. • 69% estimated increased HR administration costs, 58% foresaw a loss of productivity, 49% predicted increased overtime costs, and 34% anticipated increased training costs. • 25% predicted other consequences, including increased overall benefits costs, difficulty covering for long-term vacant positions, and potential abuse of the program. • 65% predicted increased employee satisfaction and morale, while 29% anticipated increased employee retention. • 17% predicted other positives, including an ability to support employees in their time of need, and the ability to recruit better talent. • A number of employers reported that they already currently offer some form of paid leave.

• 82% supported requiring one year of employment prior to eligibility, in place of the proposed four weeks. • 68% called for a small business exemption, with companies with less than 50 employees given the option to opt-in to the program.

We will continue to gather member feedback on these and other issues, and advocate on behalf of employers throughout the legislative session. On Tuesday, March 8, Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce and small business owners from across New York State will travel to Albany to speak directly with legislators at Small Business Lobby Day. Paid family leave and the proposed $15 an hour minimum wage will be key topics of focus in meetings with members of our local assembly and senate delegations. This is a great opportunity for face-to-face dialogue with legislators to ensure employers’ legislative concerns are heard. If you are interested in learning more about Small Business Day or have any questions on any of the topics discussed above, please contact me at (585) 256-4626 or Shannon Ealy at (585) 256-4658. Unshackle Upstate has been a key player in the Minimum Wage Reality Check, a campaign supported by a coalition of organizations, including Rochester Chamber, that opposes increasing New York State’s minimum wage to $15. To learn more about how you can support this effort and for more information, please visit www. MinimumWageRealityCheck.com.

www.GreaterRochesterChamber.com

Human Resources Workplace Violence and Active Shooter Planning

e don’t like to talk about it. We don’t even want to think about it. But we’re seeing more and more media stories about violence in the workplace, which lately have involved more workplace shootings. Employers need to be prepared, just in case, whether or not you think it’s a possibility in your organization. Here are some tips for dealing with the possibility of violence, along with some training guidelines that incorporate the need for all employees to share responsibility for maintaining a violence-free workplace.

1. Conduct a risk assessment of your work environment – Are there back door exits that are unlocked from the inside during office hours? Would they be convenient escape routes? Is there adequate lighting in the hallways, parking lots, and entryways? Are there decorative items in the reception area that could be used as weapons? At what times of day might employees be most at risk? 2. Don’t ignore warning signs – Most people who commit violent acts

communicate before they carry out their plan. Is there an employee who is acting unusually paranoid, is fixated on violence or weapons, is socially isolated, or is being hypercritical of coworkers, supervisors, or office procedures? Has a customer made threats, either verbally, by email, phone, or in writing? Is an employee involved in a domestic dispute in which he or she has been subjected to stalking, threats, or physical violence at home? 3.Take the “zero tolerance” approach Employers need to have a clear policy that any threatening communication or behavior, whether from another employee, a customer, a family member, or anyone else, must be reported to management or human resources immediately so action can be taken. 4. Plan, plan, plan! – Use the team approach to deal with a potential workplace violence episode. Give each employee a task and go through a trial run, like a fire drill, so that everyone has the opportunity to practice his or her role. Workplace violence preparation and training:Tips for your emergency plan

2016 IRS Standard Mileage Rates The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) issued the 2016 optional standard mileage rates used to calculate the deductible costs of operating an automobile for business, charitable, medical or moving purposes. Beginning on Jan. 1, 2016, the standard mileage rates for the use of a car (also vans, pickups or panel trucks) will be: • 54 cents per mile for business miles driven, down from 57.5 cents for 2015 • 19 cents per mile driven for medical or moving purposes, down from 23 cents for 2015 • 14 cents per mile driven in service of charitable organizations The business mileage rate decreased 3.5 cents per mile and the medical, and moving expense rates decrease 4 cents per mile from the 2015 rates. The charitable rate is based on statute. Taxpayers always have the option of

March/April 2016

calculating the actual costs of using their vehicle rather than using the standard mileage rates.A taxpayer may not use the business standard mileage rate for a vehicle after using any depreciation method under the Modified Accelerated Cost Recovery System (MACRS) or after claiming a Section 179 deduction for that vehicle. In addition, the business standard mileage rate cannot be used for more than four vehicles used simultaneously. These and other requirements for a taxpayer to use a standard mileage rate to calculate the amount of a deductible business, moving, medical or charitable expense are in Rev. Proc. 2010-51. Notice 2016-01 contains the standard mileage rates, the amount a taxpayer must use in calculating reductions to basis for depreciation taken under the business standard mileage rate, and the maximum standard automobile cost that a taxpayer may use in computing the allowance under a fixed and variable rate plan.

Just in case your team ever does face a sudden, violent event in the workplace, all employees need to be as prepared and trained as possible. The best way to accomplish this is to plan ahead. Make sure all employees have clear and concise instructions for handling such a situation. While no one expects every employee to read early warning signs to the same degree a trained psychologist would, many signals are obvious and at least raise a red flag or warrant careful monitoring. While some employers have a workplace violence policy and training, active shooter planning is often not included. Employers should give serious consideration to expanding their policies as well as employee training. Then to take it a step beyond employerprovided training, the Rochester Chamber has teamed up with Better Business Bureau of Upstate NY to present the Rochester TRENDS Active Shooter Seminar on March 9 which is open to the general public. There will be a panel of representatives from the NYS Division of Homeland Security Emergency Services, Monroe County Sheriff’s Office SWAT, Rochester Police Department, and Federal Bureau of Investigation. For more information or to register for this complimentary seminar, click here. Eligible Rochester Chamber members interested in more information on workplace violence policies or training can contact the HR Helpline staff for assistance: Kathy Richmond, Sr. Director, HR Services at (585) 256-4618 or Jennifer Suppé, Sr. HR Services specialist, MSHRD, PHR at (585) 256-4608.

Survey Spotlight

Legal Briefing Preparing for the New Rule on Overtime Pay Mike Trabold Paychex

n 2015, the Department of Labor (DOL) proposed a rule that could have a significant impact on the way employers compensate their employees. This rule proposes changes that would expand the number of workers who are eligible for overtime pay; time and one-half their regular rate of pay for hours worked over 40 in a workweek. Most businesses will be required to comply with the changes once a final rule is released. Here are five workflow recommendations that may be critical to your company’s success and compliance with the new overtime pay regulations: 1. Review and identify employees Certain employees may not be impacted by the changes, but it will be important to review and confirm that employees currently classified as exempt from the overtime protections of the Fair Labor Standards Act meet the duties test for their exemption. Work with your payroll and HR team to review their payroll and identify exempt employees with current salaries below or very close to the new proposed salary thresholds for executive, professional, and administrative white collar exemptions. 2. Determine which positions will transition to non-exempt status Once you have confirmed the exempt status of employees most likely impacted by the proposed rule, you will need to decide, by position, how to proceed. Employers have two options: increase the salary level to maintain exempt status, or transition the position to non-exempt status. Employers who choose to transition positions to a non-exempt status will need to determine the basis for pay (hourly or salaried) and ensure they meet the minimum

wage requirement for the number of hours the employee is expected to work. They should also consider whether overtime will be necessary and permitted. Consistency is crucial to mitigating exposure to discrimination lawsuits.

that arise, develop a communications plan for announcing the changes internally. The plan should introduce the procedures for reporting hours worked, as well as when and where you will communicate the change to supervisors, managers, and employees.

3. Update timekeeping policies

It may be best to speak first with managers and supervisors, and then to impacted employees individually. Or, discussing the changes in job classifications or time tracking procedures with the entire staff might be more appropriate. Choose the approach that best fits your business, as long as the overall message is consistent to reduce confusion and potential compliance issues in the future.

Updating recordkeeping requirements and procedures can be critical to ensure full compliance. If you have employees who will transition from exempt to non-exempt status, you will need to begin tracking all time worked for these employees, including overtime hours. Review your time tracking methods and evaluate if there’s a need for more automation. Should the new rule significantly impact the number of employees who need to track their hours worked, an alternative method of tracking, such as a time and attendance software, may better suit your needs. It is also important to establish clear, written employee policies for recording time worked and overtime. These should include the procedure for recording time, what is considered time worked, how overtime is approved and by whom, and the potential disciplinary action for failing to follow the company’s policy. This information should be distributed to all employees or published in an employee handbook.

It’s never too early to start planning for upcoming regulatory changes. By following these five workflow recommendations, your company will be well-positioned to respond when the DOL issues its final rule. Mike Trabold is director of compliance risk for Paychex, Inc. Paychex is a leading provider of integrated solutions for payroll, HR, retirement, and insurance services.

4. Develop training procedures Once recordkeeping and overtime policies have been updated, educate your staff on the company timekeeping and overtime approval procedures. This should be done for supervisors, managers, and newly impacted employees, and consider a refresher for current non-exempt employees to ensure the policy is consistently applied. Deliver this training as soon as possible, with supervisors performing regular audits of time records. 5. Create and execute a communications plan The new rule on overtime pay is expected to impact a significant number of businesses this year. To combat the questions or concerns

When it comes to hiring the right person, take a step in the right direction with RBA Staffing Criminal Records Check Sex Offender Registries Social Security Number Check DMV Check Current/Past Employment Verification References Check Academic Verification And more! Let RBA Staffing help you make better decisions to hire better employees. (585) 256-4647 www.RBAstaffing.com

www.GreaterRochesterChamber.com

Voice of Business

March/April 2016

Voice of Business Rochester Chamber Announces Promotions and New Hires

reater Rochester Chamber of Commerce announced five staff promotions and two new hires. Megan Baldino, Christyne Huerta, Kayleigh Mooney, Dominic Oliveri, and Jennifer Suppé received promotions while Sandy Gonzalez and Lia Lando are new additions to the Rochester Chamber team. Details of the promotions: Megan Baldino promoted to Office Administrator from her former position of Front Office Coordinator of Rochester Chamber’s RBA Staffing division. This marks Megan’s sixth promotion in her five years at Rochester Chamber. She recently became a first-time homeowner in Hamlin. Christyne Huerta promoted to Accounting Supervisor from Finance and Accounting Clerk. Christyne has a bachelor’s degree in English literature from SUNY Brockport and is currently working on a second in accounting. degree

Kayleigh Mooney promoted to Medical Staffing Supervisor from her former position of Placement Specialist at Rochester Chamber’s RBA Staffing division. Kayleigh has seven years recruiting experience including working on-site at two client locations.

New hires include:

Dominic Oliveri promoted to Supervisor, Background and Reference Checking from Coordinator, Background and Reference Checking. Oliveri has worked at Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce since 2007 and also serves as head coach of the SUNY Geneseo men’s soccer team. Jennifer Suppé promoted to Sr. Human Resource Services Specialist from Human Resource Services Specialist. Jennifer has a master’s degree in human resources development from St. John Fisher College and PHR and SHRM-CP certifications.

Sandy Gonzalez as Placement Specialist for Rochester Chamber’s RBA Staffing division. Prior to coming to RBA Staffing, Sandy worked for another staffing agency as a recruiter for the light industrial and manufacturing fields. Sandy considers the staffing business a passion, not just a job. Lia Lando as Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce Sales Representative. Lia previously served as news anchor and reporter at WHEC-TV Channel 10 in Rochester. Lia is a graduate of Syracuse University’s S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications.

Friday HR Briefings March 4 - Employee Benefits - A Regional Perspective Time: 8:00 - 9:00 a.m. March 18 - TBD April 1 - TBD

This edition of Chamber NetWORKS APRIL 13, 2016 after 5 event is our way of saying Rochester Chamber Member “thank you” to our members. We will appreciation networking event! meet at the Woodcliff Hotel and Spa to enjoy an evening of COMPLIMENTARY This edition offor Chamber NetWORKS after 5 event is our way of saying “thank you” to our members. networking our members. • WeTake a new professional headshot Click here to register will meet at the Woodcliff Hotel and Spa to enjoy an evening of COMPLIMENTARY networking for $50 Join us as we enjoy a casual and fun-filled evening with the following offerings: ourfor members. • Mini trade show (tables are $100) • TAKE Raffle giveaways A NEW PROFESSIONAL HEADSHOT: On-site professional photographer for your new headshot at a discounted price of $50 per person which includes (1) Digital Hi-Res Headshot. MINI TRADE SHOW (Trade show tables are $100 each): Make business connections and browse through a mini-trade show featuring Rochester Chamber members.

April 15 - TBD

Location: Rochester Chamber 150 State St., Rochester, NY 14614 Open to: Members only (no cost) To register, email Michele.Hefferon@ GreaterRochesterChamber.com

www.GreaterRochesterChamber.com

Seminars and Software Training Register at www.GreaterRochesterChamber.com

Seminars Held at Rochester Chamber

Chamber SPOTlight Tour: RES Exhibits

March 10 Firestorm Webinar:Visibility Vulnerability

Training Held at Logical Operations Register at www.newhorizonsatlo.com/rochester-business-alliance

March 2 MS Excel 2007/2010 - Part 2 March 3 Customer Service March 3-4 MS SharePoint Foundation 2010 - Level 2 March7-8 Excel Office Access 2010 - Part 1 March 9 MS SharePoint Foundation 2013: Site Owner March 10 Escape Your Email Overload Workshop March 10 MS SharePoint Foundation 2013: Site Owner March 11Creating an Engaging Customer Experience March 11 MS SharePoint Foundation 2013: Site Administrator March 14 MS Excel 2007/2010 - Part 1 March 14 MS Project 2013 - Part 1 March 14-19 Cisco Interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices Part 1 v2.0 March 15 MS Excel 2007/2010 - Part 2 March 15 MS Project 2013 - Part 2 March 17 MS Excel 2013 - Part 1 March 17 SQL Querying - Level 2 Advanced Querying March 18 MS Excel 2013 - Part 2 March 21-22 MS Access 2013 - Part 1 Site Owner March 23 MS Project 2010 - Level 1 March 24 MS Office Project 2010 - Level 2 March 24 Presentation Skills March 28 MS Excel 2010 Part 3 March 29 MS Excel 2016 - Part 1 March 30 Managing Emotions in the Workplace March 30 MS Excel 2016 - Part 2

March 31-April 1 MS Access 2016 - Part 1 April 1 MS Excel 2016 - Part 3 April 4 MS Office 2016 - Transition from Office 2007-2010 April 4 MS Excel 2016 - Part 1 April 5 MS Excel 2010 - Part 2 April 6 MS Excel 2010 - Part 3 April 7 CyberSAFE (Securing Assets for the End User) April 8 MS Excel 2013: Data Analysis with Pivot Tables April 8 MS Excel 2013: Data Analysis with Power Pivot April 11 MS Word 2010 - Part 1 April 12 MS Word 2010 - Part 2 April 13 MS Word 2010 - Part 3 April 13 Getting Organized: the GO System April 14 MS Access 2013 - Part 2 April 15 From HR Metrics Reporting to Impactful Analytics April 18 MS Outlook 2010 - Part 1 April 19 MS Outlook 2010 - Part 2 April 21 MS Excel 2013 - Part 1 April 22 MS Excel 2013 - Part 2 April 25 Google Drive and Productivity April 25 MS PowerPoint 2010 - Part 1 April 26 MS PowerPoint 2010 - Part 2 April 26 Strategic Thinking April 27 MS SharePoint Foundation 2013: Site User April 28 MS SharePoint Foundation 2013: Site Owner April 29 MS SharePoint Foundation 2013: Site Administrator April 29 Visio Professional 2013 - Part 1

Celebrate our brand and website launch March 3. Details on p. 10 GreaterRochesterChamber.com

Visit our website for details about the 4/28 SPOTlight Tour of Sweeteners Plus.