“So far, we’ve heard the governor announce numerous programs during his different installments of his State of the State Address. Let me be clear: I’ll support any program that is beneficial to the health, welfare and financial stability of my constituents. As we enter the 2021-22 legislative session, I’ll continue working with my colleagues in government to ensure that our residents’ needs are met.

“I was pleased to hear the governor prioritize green energy investment, which will help bring good-paying jobs to the Mohawk Valley. Our regional economy is in a good position to benefit greatly from these green energy projects. Projects like the Energy Transmission Superhighway are set to deliver clean, renewable energy across the state and align with the goals of the 2019 Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act. I encourage local entrepreneurs to examine how their companies can play a role in this important endeavor.

“Furthermore, I support the governor’s proposal to expand broadband access across the state, as this has been a longstanding issue in the 119^th District. His plan to close the ‘digital divide’ by requiring a monthly, low-cost internet service would help support our residents who need affordable internet for remote work and school and telemedicine.

“As a representative of a district which includes a number of arts and entertainment facilities, including Munson-Williams-Proctor Arts Institute, The Stanley Theatre, and the Rome Capitol Arts Complex, I’m excited to hear the governor’s plan to bringing the arts to the forefront and plans to use public-private partnerships to create arts and music programming across the state. However, I have requested his proposal to include athletics and sports.It’s imperative that New York State make commitments to the sports industry and other tourism-related industries, which support our economic revitalization.In the Utica/Rome area, it is not uncommon for an individual to visit one of the above-mentioned arts venues and then head to a local college to catch a hockey game or the Adirondack Bank Center for a soccer game.As we’ve seen with the recent Buffalo Bills team, sports make our communities proud and inspires many athletes to do all they can to ensure the success of New York sports teams, whether they are professional, college-level, or high school-level teams.I’ve urged the Governor to provide support for the sports industry, especially for our youth, over the coming months, as it not only impacts our youth but aids in our state’s recovery agenda. 

“The Mohawk Valley has worked to overcome many challenges in 2020 and we will continue that momentum into 2021. I’ll keep fighting to ensure our families and small businesses get the support and resources they need to recover and build back stronger.”