Utica, NY (WIBX) - Local leaders convened at a seemingly unlikely place to promote a jobs package for New York State...a local Parkway Drugs.

Signed into law by the Governor on December 9, 2011 the "NY Youth Works" program allows for up to $4,000 in tax credits for businesses who hire youth in selected parts of the state.  Locally at-risk youth in Utica are targeted, with "at risk" being defined as those having one ofmany characteristics ranging from being a high school drop-out to being the son or daughter of someone on unemployment. 

The plan is being embraced well beyond party lines.  Utica Mayor Robert Palmieri joined State Senator Joseph Griffo and Assemblyman Anthony Brindisi to commend Governor Cuomo on the measure. 

Mohawk Valley Chamber of Commerce President Sam Bernadino and Parkway Drugs' Vincent Chiffy joined New York State Labor Department Special Counsel Rachel Gold in kickstarting the program in an attempt to get as many new companies and potential employees on board as the summer job season approaches.  Parkway Drugs is one of the first companies in the Utica/Rome area to take advantage of the program.

Other companies that have also signed on include: AmeriCU Credit Union, Faxton-St.Luke's Healthcare, Luitpold Pharmaceuticals, King Donuts, Utica Donuts/Dunkin Donuts, Human Technologies Corporation, and New Hartford Animal Hospital.

Whether you are looking for a job or seeking to offer one, for more information visit: http://www.labor.ny.gov/careerservices/youth-tax-credit.shtm.

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