The Peru Gazette

“I do not support the Assembly’s Green Light bill, which would reward undocumented immigrants with state driver’s licenses (A.3675-A). I’ve heard from people all over my district who are opposed to this bill. As we enter the remaining weeks of the 2019 legislative session, it is more important than ever to fight for legislation that […]

From the office of Assemblyman Billy Jones Assemblyman Billy Jones (D-Chateaugay) is inviting North Country children to participate in his third Summer Reading Challenge, which kicks off in July. The event, held in partnership with New York State libraries and local schools, encourages children to use their summer leisure time to build upon and strengthen […]

From the office of Assemblyman Billy Jones “The governor and the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision’s decision not to close any prisons in the North Country is a huge victory for our communities and our regional economy. The men and women whose jobs were up in the air can breathe a sigh of relief […]

Source: Jones: North Country prisons spared from closures | News | pressrepublican.com

From the office of Senator Little State Senator Betty Little joined her Republican colleagues at a press conference in Albany today to advocate for a package of bills that would reform New York State’s parole system to keep violent criminals behind bars longer and ease the parole process for victims and their families. “Anyone who […]

Assemblyman Billy Jones (D-Chateaugay) presented Diane Menard with a New York State Gift of Life Medal of Honor on Monday for her selfless donation of a kidney to her sister, Julie Seibert, a Rouses Point resident who was battling a rare autoimmune disorder. The Gift of Life Medal of Honor program was created in 2002 […]

Source: NY Gov. Cuomo Signs Plastic Bag Ban | WAMC

From the office of Assemblyman Billy Jones Assemblyman Billy Jones (D-Chateaugay) announced that the 2019-20 state budget invests in critical funding that will help North Country farmers grow their businesses. This year’s plan includes $33.2 million for agriculture across the state. “North Country folks know better than anyone that our farms are the lifeblood of […]

Source: Census funding in budget leaves advocates wanting – Capitol Confidential

Source: Lawmakers, Cuomo secure raises in budget process – Times Union

NEW YORK STATE BUDGET ADOPTION STATEMENT “The newly adopted state budget will create some tough financial challenges for local governments and local taxpayers by cutting assistance for highway repairs and changing aid to municipalities (AIM) funding.  I am also very concerned that the election law reforms approved by the Legislature earlier this year are not […]

Source: $175 billion budget deal announced – these are the highlights – Capitol Confidential

From the office of ssemblyman Billy Jones Assemblyman Billy Jones (D-Chateaugay) announced that the Assembly’s 2019-20 state budget proposal passed Wednesday restores $2.85 million for Career Pathways programs, which help train young adults for careers in high-growth sectors. “The North Country faces a shortage of skilled workers that’s leaving us in a lurch,” Jones said. […]

Source: State lawmakers can’t confirm Altona prison closure rumors | Local News | pressrepublican.com

Source: North Country reps rail against proposal to shutter state prisons – Sun Community News & Printing

“There’s scant detail in the 30-day executive budget amendments but plenty to be concerned about with an indication of the closure of up to three correctional facilities,” said Senator Betty Little. “Maintaining safety in these facilities for the men and women who work there and for the inmates is critical. As I understand, we still […]

From the office of Assemblyman Billy Jones “The governor’s proposal to close three prisons in New York is cause for major concern. While no prisons have been specifically named, communities statewide will have to wait with bated breath to find out if a critical part of their economy will be shuttered. “As a former correction […]

From the office of NYS Senator Betty Little  The State Senate today gave final legislative approval of legislation that will reduce the number of petition signatures required for local candidates to qualify for the primary and general election ballots this year. Senator Betty Little, who co-sponsored the measure, said it is in response to concerns […]

Source: Single-payer healthcare campaign kicks off in Albany – Times Union

From the office of Assemblyman Billy Jones  Assemblyman Billy Jones (D-Chateaugay) announced that a new law, which he helped pass so more veterans can gain access to benefits, is going into effect (Ch. 322 of 2018). The law ensures that veterans are given proper assistance and informed of the benefits they’re entitled to when dealing […]

Source: State legislature passes strongest gun control bills since SAFE Act; North Country reps react – Sun Community News & Printing

From the office of Assemblyman Billy Jones Assemblyman Billy Jones (D-Chateaugay) announced that legislation he co-sponsored removing the mandate that standardized test scores be used for teacher and principal evaluations has passed the Assembly (A.783). “Test scores don’t accurately measure students’ or teachers’ worth,” Jones said. “A one-size-fits-all approach to education hurts a student’s ability […]

Source: Pro-life leader: ‘Horrible for our state’ | Local News | pressrepublican.com

Source: Long-stalled abortion bill passes New York Legislature – The Buffalo News

From the office of Assemblyman Billy Jones Assemblyman Billy Jones (D-Chateaugay) announced that his legislation to provide a tax credit to employers who hire New Yorkers in substance abuse recovery has been included in the executive budget proposal (A.1604). The Jobs In Recovery bill would allow businesses that hire New Yorkers attending a state-certified rehabilitation […]