According to recent statistics, that number increases every ten minutes, with more than 600 New York State residents losing their lives last year due to an organ not being available in time. Many people do not realize that when you sign up to become an organ donor, you are potentially saving lives.
There are many positive reasons to live and work in New York. Unfortunately, state taxes are not one of them. Each year, the Tax Foundation, an independent tax policy research organization based in Washington, D.C., publishes various reports ranking each state’s tax burdens.
Here in Central and Northern New York, our local libraries provide a wonderful place for students to use their imaginations to escape into the world of books, while helping them build upon their reading skills and knowledge at the same time.
We are fortunate to have more than 50 public libraries in Jefferson, Oswego and St. Lawrence counties – one of the largest concentrations in the state.
Last month, the NYS Public Service Commission took important action on upgrading the state’s electrical grid. This is the first step in addressing New York’s outdated transmission infrastructure. In doing so, the state can reduce its reliance on imported power, more readily and efficiently transmit electricity throughout the state, and better allow power generated Upstate to reach Downstate markets. These types of grid improvements will provide long-term viability to Upstate generators, particularly our nuclear plants.
We owe a lot to the brave men and women who put their own personal health and safety on the line to protect us. That’s why just recently, I was proud to join with my Senate colleagues in approving a measure to help further protect the health of volunteer firefighters who become sick due to the hazards they face while serving their communities.
At first glance, “free” college sounds very attractive. Why not? The cost of higher education continues to increase at a rate far outpacing inflation and many graduates end up being saddled with huge student loan debt.
With more than 10,000 miles of snowmobiling trails available to explore in New York State – and especially throughout Central and Northern New York – many outdoor enthusiasts like myself spend a significant amount of time on their sleds during the winter months.
About 2 million people hunt, fish and trap in the state, ranking New York third in the nation in the number of sportsmen and women obtaining licenses and permits. Local communities and the state benefit economically from the license sales and associated activity.
From community events to awesome places to visit, there’s so much that makes Central and Northern New York special. In an effort to highlight all that’s unique about our region, I’m launching “Senator Ritchie’s Community Spotlight.”
Last week, in lieu of a traditional State of the State address to the legislature, the Governor made six speeches throughout the state that outlined his policy priorities for 2017. Some of the major policies that he said he would be advocating for are (i) free college tuition, (ii) expanding the child care tax credit, and (iii) making various “social justice” reforms.
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