Libraries are more than just places to find books. They are centers of learning, culture and entertainment that exist in communities across our state. As the new chair of the Senate Select Committee on Libraries, I am doing my part to support local libraries and ensure that they can continue to provide the vitally important services countless patrons depend on.
Over the last few weeks, certain self-proclaimed environmental groups have begun an all-out effort to convince the legislature to overturn New York’s newly adopted Clean Energy Standard. The CES is a landmark policy adopted last year by the NYS Public Service Commission with the support of Governor Cuomo, various state legislators (including myself), business groups, environmentalists, and labor organizations.
Every March, people across our country come together to celebrate “Women’s History Month,” a time to recognize the contributions of women to American society. The United States began officially observing Women’s History Month in 1987, and since that time it has served as a way to celebrate the role of women who through their achievements have changed our country for the better.
According to the Healthcare Association of New York State, New York is facing a doctor shortage and that shortage is likely to intensify over the next decade. This is especially problematic for rural and low-income communities where there are even fewer doctors and a particular shortage of primary care doctors.
There is only Earth, and as such, we all have a responsibility to protect it, not only for today, but also for future generations. One of the most important ways we can safeguard our planet, is by teaching young people the importance of taking steps to preserve it. This month, I am again launching my annual Earth Day Poster Contest.
There are more than 6,000 public libraries in New York State providing access to books, movies, technology, various workshops and classes. They enrich our communities and provide educational opportunities at every stage of life.
If you are curious about how sap from a tree gets made into delicious maple syrup and other sweet treats, I encourage you to visit one of our local sugar houses in Central and Northern New York, which will be opening their doors for “Maple Weekend” on March 18 and 19 and again March 25 and 26.
February is National Heart Month and also the time when people “Go Red for Women.” These efforts are aimed at promoting awareness of heart disease. This month, local groups have been featured in the workplace and on the news wearing red to promote heart health and healthy lifestyles.
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.
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