Assembly Will Barclay
Advocating for People with Disabilities
It was less than 30 years ago when the Americans with Disabilities Act passed Congress and was signed into law by President George H.W. Bush.
Politics
Ritchie
The Heartbreaking Truth About Lyme Disease
Recently, Robin Phillips, the mother of a high school student in Oswego County called my office, upset with the fact that the new New York State budget eliminated $1 million in important funding to fight Lyme and other tick-borne diseases. As someone who has fought for years for support that has helped fight Lyme disease and raise awareness, I share her frustration.
Assembly Will Barclay
Farmworkers Labor Act Would Harm Local Farmers
There is a bill gaining support in Albany that, if enacted, would further reduce the amount of farms in our state. The bill is called the Farmworkers Fair Labor Practices Act.
Ritchie
Community Spotlight: Watertown’s Thompson Park Zoo
When I spend time with my grandchildren, I often try to find activities for us to do that are not just fun, but also educational. In our region, we are fortunate enough to have a number of places families can go to enjoy a day together and learn something at the same time.
Assembly Will Barclay
Public Dollars Should Not Support Political Campaigns
For years the Governor and the Assembly Democrats have pushed for state-funded political campaigns. With one-party rule, publicly-funded political campaigns are nearing reality. This year, the budget authorized spending of up to $100 million annually to fund statewide political races.
Ritchie
Help Improve Our State Parks At ‘I Love My Park Day’
Did you know that in 2018, a record 74 million people visited New York State parks, historic sites, campgrounds and trails? From hiking and fishing to golf and beaches, there’s something for everybody in the New York State parks system.
Assembly Will Barclay
New York State’s Linked Deposit Program Benefits Economy
In 1994, the state began the Linked Deposit Program to assist and encourage firms, manufacturers and small businesses to make investments. This program offers reduced-rate financing to makes it less expensive to borrow money.
Ritchie
Distracted Driving Is Dangerous Driving
As technology improves, and becomes more mobile, the number of people using that technology while driving only continues to grow. That is why, during the month of April, the nation marks “Distracted Driving Awareness Month” – a time to raise awareness of the dangers of distracted driving, and teach people the importance of maintaining focus behind the wheel.
Assembly Will Barclay
Criminal Justice Reforms Contained in Budget Flawed and Dangerous
While not directly related to NYS fiscal issues, some of the biggest policies included in this year’s state budget were changes to our state’s criminal justice system. The biggest of those changes was the elimination of cash bail for most crimes other than certain qualifying offenses.
Ritchie
Joim The Ranks Of Our Heroes: Become A Volunteer Firefighter
All across our state, there are brave people who are truly making a difference in our communities by protecting our families, friends and neighbors.Every single time these people, our volunteer firefighters, answer a call, they are putting their lives on the line to do so.