Amazon 'Corporate Welfare' Criticized by New York Politicians

November 11, 2018, 7:59 PM EST

Online retailer is said to be close to investing in Queens
Two lawmakers say Amazon should be ‘responsible’ neighbor

Crystal City in Arlington, Virginia. Photographer: Andrew Harrer/Bloomberg

Amazon.com Inc. shouldn’t receive "massive corporate welfare" to invest in New York City and should instead use its resources to help solve public problems such as aging transportation systems, two lawmakers who represent the city said.

"We’re tripping over ourselves to buy Amazon’s love when New York has a lot to offer," New York State Senator Michael Gianaris said in an interview, after releasing a joint statement with New York City Councilman Jimmy Van Bramer. Both represent the Long Island City neighborhood of Queens.