Assemblyman Scott Gray (R-Watertown) released the latest episode of “The Gray Area” video series. In this week’s episode, Gray discusses New York state’s rescission to participate in a Constitutional Convention of states along with the significant workforce development initiative “Next Move NY,” a $10 million workforce investment initiative geared to developing soldiers transitioning from active duty into civilian jobs.

“It’s been a quiet week in Albany as we continue through budget negotiations. We’ve finished the advocacy phase, and we are now between advocacy and the finalization of the budget, which is expected to be late. No surprise there,” Gray said.

“This week, we rescinded our call for a Constitutional Convention. It was a concurrent resolution by the Assembly and the Senate concerning the recission of all previous requests for the New York State Legislature by either house. A Constitutional Convention empowers the people—when we rescind it, we’re really taking power away from the people, which is concerning. I voted down on this because I believe in empowering the people.”

“We also had a meeting on Thursday with Regional Economic Development Councils (REDC). That meeting came with a great announcement for Next Move NY’s $10 million investment in the workforce. This investment is targeted toward Fort Drum and transitioning soldiers into civilian employment with an eye toward Micron Technology. We also had a $1 million announcement pertaining to Advocate Drum, which is an ancillary public community group that supports Fort Drum and its mission. We also had the Northern Regional Center for Independent Living (NRCIL) in again, as well as Abby and Joyce from CFC 2.0 regarding child abuse and reporting. Thanks to all those who came to visit.”

“Look out for next week’s episode of The Gray Area as we continue to update you on what you care about. We always appreciate the opportunity to serve you and to work with you. Don’t hesitate to call my office staff with questions, comments or concerns—see you soon,” Gray concluded.