In Brief: N.Y. Thrifts Allowed Into Lending Program

ALBANY, N.Y. - New York State's thrifts will now be able to participate in the state's Excelsior Linked Deposits Program, under legislation signed by Republican Gov. George Pataki.

The program, designed to promote economic development and create new jobs, allows the state's banks and thrifts to make below-market rate loans to qualified small businesses.

Launched in early 1994, the program was set to expire on March 31, but was extended and expanded to include thrifts this year after a failed attempt by lawmakers last year to allow thrifts to join.

The program was initially limited to the state's banks because of state law barring thrifts from accepting public deposits.

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