Albany, NY – Members of the New York State Legislative Women’s Caucus (LWC) joined together Monday to discuss the group’s priorities for the 2016 session. A poll of the members resulted in quality, affordable child care, after school programming, and the 100th anniversary of women’s suffrage in New York being chosen as the three topics of focus this year.

“Representation by women in the Legislature is stronger than it has ever been,” said Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo (D-Binghamton), Chair of the LWC. “This is a great opportunity to continue advance the participation of women in government and support issues that benefit all women in New York State.”

The LWC is a bi-partisan group with representatives from both the Assembly and Senate. As of the start of the 2016 session the LWC has 55 members, the largest number of women to serve in the State Legislature. Shirley Tranholm serves as the Executive Director of the Caucus, facilitating the group’s work.

“It is great to once again see the Caucus establish its priorities through a poll of the members,” said Tranholm. “By entering the year with a unified focus, it will really help guide our work during the budget and remainder of the session.”

Since its inception in 1983, the Caucus has worked closely with women's organizations and concerned individuals across the state, as well as with the Governor, state agencies and other legislators to advocate for programs and services that benefit women. You can follow the LWC on Facebook and on Twitter.