They advocate for businesses across the state and now the Business Council of New York State is calling on the public to speak out for reform. Our Kaitlyn Lionti has more on the council president's visit to Corning and why he says now is the time to make your voice heard.

CORNING, N.Y. -- Getting New York's economy back on its feet. The President and CEO of the Business Council of New York State came to Corning Wednesday to meet with the Corning and Watkins Glen Area Chambers of Commerce.

The visit was a chance to discuss issues and concerns facing businesses across New York, including the current budget proposal.

"If we can get Albany to reduce state spending, live within its means and reduce taxes, we will have private sector job growth, we will have companies hiring again. We don't want New York to be the poster child for the jobless recovery," said Kenneth Adams, the President and CEO of The Business Council of New York State.

One issue Adams addressed is the void the ending of the Empire Zone Program will create for small business.

"To have that expire in June of this year and to not have any other kind of incentive to retain our businesses, much less recruit new business, it's a very huge issue that needs to be looked at," said Denise Ackley, President of the Corning Area Chamber of Commerce.

Adams says now is the time for the public to speak up and share their concerns with legislators while they work on the state budget.

"It's urgent. It's really important to do it now and it does make a difference. And remember, frankly there are folks on the other side who want to see taxes go up, who want to see spending that we can't afford. They're speaking out now and so we've got to come back and give the other side of the story," said Adams.

And Ackley says it's important to realize the trickle down affect.

"If you aren't aware of the issues, you need to be aware of the issues, it does impact you. It may not right now, but if you don't voice, if you don't stand together if you don't work with us, it may impact you later and it may not be the results you were hoping for."

The Business Council has set up a way for the public to reach out to their elected officials online. You can visit that site at www.fixnys.org.