Politics

In an attempt to get ahead of the legislature, on January 15 the Governor gave his annual budget address. In the address, the Governor laid out what most would consider a very liberal agenda. Sadly, there was nothing in his address that offers relief to the overtaxed citizens of Upstate New York or to stem the continued outward migration of people from New York state.

The idea that citizens have the right to be self-governed was the cornerstone political belief of our founding fathers and the fact that we have the ability to choose our political leaders is as important today as it was at the time of our country’s founding.

On Wednesday, the State Legislature gaveled in for the first time this year marking the start to the 2019 Legislative Session. I look forward to this day. It brings a renewed sense of hope and change for the upcoming year and allows for the opportunity to set priorities for this session with my colleagues.

Since 1965, New York has had a Newborn Screening Program. When the program first became law, health care providers only screened for PKU (Phenylketonuria) – a rare genetic disorder.

Before the holiday shopping season ramps up, the public is encouraged to shop locally during Small Business Saturday. The day is traditionally held the Saturday after Thanksgiving (following Black Friday) and serves as a reminder that gifts and services purchased locally support businesses and jobs in our backyards.