NY A02176

Creates an Office for Small Business within the Executive Department, headed by a Director appointed by the Governor with Senate consent, replacing the Division for Small Business from the Economic Development Law.

Establishes a 15-member Small Business Advisory Board with at least nine members who own or operate small businesses, meeting at least four times annually to advise the Director and recommend legislation.

Defines a small business as a resident, independently-owned operation not dominant in its field with 100 or fewer employees, and grants the Office authority to coordinate state agency activities, investigate complaints, and conduct research on small business matters.

Creates a Small Business Stationary Source Ombudsman Program to represent small businesses on Clean Air Act compliance issues and refer them to appropriate assistance entities.

Transfers all functions, powers, assets, liabilities, records, and appropriations from the Division for Small Business to the new Office by January 31, 2015, with authority to extend the deadline via memorandum of understanding if needed.