Dear eNews Reader,
As I am writing this, I am one day away from finishing up my last legislative session. It has been a true privilege to represent our community in Albany for the last 22 years. I’ve done my best to be a reasonable voice in the process. Now my attention turns to the rest of the year, where we will be working on local issues and ongoing projects. It’s also a great time to enjoy the many outdoor fairs and festivals our community is known for.
Donna
NY State Budget Passes After Delay
After a frustrating two-month delay held up by policy discussions, the state budget passed last week. Important investments were made in support of transportation, public safety, child care, and housing. We were able to expand free college tuition, increase aid to our local schools, and extend the electric school bus mandate by 5 years. While needed resources were allocated for programs for seniors, hospitals, and nursing homes, more progress is needed in these areas. Additionally, we need to do much more on topics that remain important to our community including workforce development and emergency medical services (EMS).
Honoring Veterans Here and in Albany
In honor of Memorial Day, I started the day with the annual Endicott Memorial Day Parade, which concluded with a moving ceremony at Veteran’s Memorial Park. I then marched in the Binghamton Memorial Day Parade along with many local elected officials and community groups. It is so important to recognize those who sacrificed everything for our country.
I also attended Women Veterans Recognition Day in Albany where Ann Marie Hogancamp, Post Commander of VFW 1449 in Endicott, delivered the Luncheon Keynote Address. She serves as the DNY VFW Legislative Chair, and is an Army veteran. This annual event is the perfect way to thank NY’s women veterans for their service and sacrifice.
Regional Farmers Market’s 10th Anniversary
Earlier this month, I attended the 10th anniversary celebration hosted by the Broome Regional Farmers Market on Front Street. Over the past decade the Market has brought our community together in countless ways, serving as a place to meet farmers, producers, artisans, and local food entrepreneurs. Congratulations to the Market on being such a bright light in our community.
Volunteer Fire and EMS Bill Advances
I’m happy to report that a bill I co-sponsored, along with Assemblyman Angelino and Senator Webb, passed in the Assembly and Senate. The goal is to increase the state income tax credit for active volunteer firefighters and EMS members from $200 to $800 per individual ($1,600 for qualifying joint filers). These hardworking volunteers need this, along with the many other changes we are advocating for.
Also, during EMS week, emergency service vehicles filled Empire State Plaza for the annual NYS EMS Memorial Service, honoring the 139 EMS personnel who have lost their life in the line of duty. The memorial was recently expanded to include the name of every fallen EMS provider.
Last Agriculture Committee Meeting
We recently held our last Agriculture Committee meeting for the session. It’s the final one for me and for Assemblyman Chris Tague, our Ranking Minority Member who is running for the NYS Senate. For 8 years we set party differences aside in support of NY farmers and producers and a lot of good came out of it. I appreciate everyone who has served on the committee; it’s been an honor.
Arthur W. Jones Jr.’s Life Celebrated at the Capitol
Earlier this month, I presented a Joint Resolution to the family of Arthur W. Jones Jr. before they were also recognized by Sen. Webb in the Senate Chamber. A graduate of U-E, Arthur was an accomplished professional athlete, playing with the Ravens and Colts in the NFL. We were proud to celebrate his life at the Capitol.
