In school, at least when I was a student, one of the first things you learn about American democracy is the importance of voting.  The idea that citizens have the right to be self-governed was the cornerstone political belief of our founding fathers...

“The Governor’s 2019 State of the State Address laid our numerous proposals for the coming Legislative Session, but I’m troubled by the silence on critical issues that matter to hard-working taxpayers, particularly in Upstate.  Each...

“The Assembly Majority passed early voting measures today that, if signed into law, would largely result in unfunded mandates, confusion, and would change our current system when it does not need to be changed.  I voted against these measures. ...

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...

“At a time when politics is at the forefront and divisiveness has caused ongoing conflict across the nation, it’s imperative that members of the state Legislature work together to pass legislation to benefit all New Yorkers. Aside from differences...

Assemblyman Will Barclay (R,C,I,Ref-Pulaski) announced today that legislation to add Lake Neatahwanta to the state’s list of inland waterways was recently signed by the Governor.  The legislation also adds the Oswego River to the list. Barclay...

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.  People with PKU lack the ability to create the enzyme needed...

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...

Assemblyman Will Barclay (R,C,I-Pulaski) was named the Ranking Minority Member of the Assembly Committee on Ways and Means today by Assembly Minority Leader Brian Kolb (R,C,I-Canandaigua). Assemblyman Barclay replaces Bob Oaks, a close colleague...

Financial scams are common problems.  The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) reported that in 2017, more than 100,000 New Yorkers lost approximately $40 million in financial scams.  These numbers are probably much higher because people are reluctant to...

Earlier this year, the State Health Department announced some good news: the statewide adult smoking rate has fallen to 14.2%.  This is the lowest level since 1985 when New York began using its current system to track smoking rates and it is below the...

In 2017, the President set a goal to double the number of apprenticeships in the U.S. because there is a great need for skilled laborers due to retiring baby boomers.  AARP estimates that 10,000 baby boomers turn 65 each day--a trend that will continue...

When serving in the National Guard, guard soldiers and airmen never know when they will be called to serve the state or country.  On the morning of 9-11, two pilots were on alert duty at the Otis Air National Guard Base in Cape Cod, Massachusetts when...

Each quarter the state’s Division of Budget releases updates to the state’s financial plan.  The latest report which was published earlier this month included, once again, details on state debt.  As one might guess—with our state’s reputation...

Assemblyman Will Barclay (R,C,I-Pulaski) has announced he will participate in the fifth annual “Tithe My Shoes” drive, an effort to collect shoes and boots for the Rescue Mission.  Shoes will be collected until Dec. 4. “Tithe My Shoes”...

Volunteers are the backbone of any community organization. The causes our local volunteers support help ensure that fewer people spend Thanksgiving alone, that children have gifts to open for the holidays, and that people have warm coats and boots for...

One thing we should be proud of in New York is our history and because of technology, it has never been easier to learn about our past.   With the advent of online archives and searchable databases, what once required a trip to the local court house...

Everyone knows that New York’s property taxes are among the highest in the nation.  According to the Tax Foundation, New York’s state and local property taxes on a per capita basis were $2,789 making them the 4th highest in the nation.  The main...

Domestic violence is a widespread problem across the nation and in New York.  According to the State Office of Court Administration, in 2016 more than 28,000 domestic assaults were reported to police agencies outside of New York City.  October is...

Too often it goes unrecognized, but New York State is a leader in agriculture.  The farmers in our state grow and produce a diverse range of commodities and Upstate's nutrient-rich soils give way to some of the best products in the nation. ...