This week, Assembly Democrats are returning for conference meetings and the rumblings of a special session continue, particularly with regard to additional ethics reform, pay increases and housing agreements. A preview of what to expect this month and in the 2017 session are beginning to form (and I spoke with TWC/Spectrum News’ Nick Reisman, which you can watch here). Recently, the governor reviewed more than 120 bills during the Thanksgiving holiday – in which many, including one of my own on records management, were vetoed.

Records management bill vetoed. One of my bills that would require the rededication of unused funds in the New York State local government records management improvement fund.

Support of Indigent Legal Services Bill. We are still advocating for the Governor to sign the indigent legal services (#ILSNY) bill that I sponsored with Senator DeFrancisco (and which passed unanimously in both bodies). Advocates for the bill continue to grow support this week, as they host another press conference here in Albany to demonstrate broad support for the bill.

Wildwood Grant Funding. Earlier this year, the Capital Region Assembly Delegation signed and sent a letter to Speaker Heastie asking for support for Camp Wildwood for $250,000. This week, we received notice that the Speaker has directed funds to be allocated to support our request. Camp Wildwood is an incredible resource providing services to children and adults with developmental disabilities and we couldn’t be more thrilled at this important development. Special thanks to Assemblyman McDonald for initiating the delegation letter.

Statement on potential Price Chopper / Market 32 sale. There are some reports that Price Chopper / Market 32 may be sold to grocery conglomerate Albertsons, which would undoubtedly alter the supermarket landscape within the Capital Region. If true, this raises a number of concerns including the loss of a highly regarded local family business. If this sale should occur, I will strongly advocate that stores within my district remain open, especially those in either walkable or public-transit friendly neighborhoods. Jobs and ready access to grocery stores are priorities of mine and I will continue be vocal advocate for both.

ICYMI: Launched BikeAlbanyMap: In late November, I helped announce the launch of the new interactive BikeAlbanyMap, of bike routes through Albany funded with a project grant I secured through the Assembly.

The map app, developed by the Albany Bicycle Coalition in collaboration with Mohawk Valley GIS and Parks & Trails New York, shows cycle routes throughout Albany on mainly bike-friendly streets. The map concentrates on secondary roads, side streets, and bike-pedestrian paths. Major arteries are used only where necessary to make connections. Traffic density is indicated by color coding. Traffic advisories, where needed, are indicated by “caution” triangles.

Learn more via WTEN ABC-10.

Dakota pipeline permits canceled. Good news for our environment as the Army Corps of Engineers have canceled permits for the proposed Dakota pipeline.

Below are a few other notes and highlights that I’d like to share with you.

Woman volunteers sought by Rescue Mission. The Rescue Mission is in dire need of female volunteers for their eight-bed short term women's shelter (Dec. 7 through March). You will be able to sleep part of the night and there will be a staff member with you. To learn more, call (518) 462-0459 x 237 or e-mail vcoordinator@albanymission.com.

Job Opportunities: New York State has setup a new job portal entitled Jobs Express, where thousands of private and public sector jobs are listed. Visit jobs.ny.gov for more information on how to apply for these opportunities.

As always, for the latest news or for upcoming events, please visit my office online, on Facebook, on Twitter, or my Times Union blog. If you would like to reach my office, please feel free to send us a note.