Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara announced that he is working to address the needs of rural New York counties in his second year as chair of the state’s Legislative Commission on Rural Resources.

“From agriculture to tourism, our rural communities helped shape New York into what it is today and are an invaluable asset that enables our state to thrive,” said Santabarbara. “It’s absolutely critical that we get these counties the resources and support they need to flourish. In my second year as chair of the Legislative Commission on Rural Resources, I look forward to working with my colleagues to find new ways to address the concerns of our rural communities and ensure their voices are heard loud and clear in Albany.”

One of the first items on Santabarbara’s agenda is passing legislation to establish a rural ambulance task force to evaluate and make recommendations regarding ambulance service operations in rural areas of New York State (A.8397-A).

“Ambulance services in our rural communities face distinct challenges, such as longer travel times, inclement weather and poor road conditions,” said Santabarbara. “They’re also facing financial strain that’s affecting their ability to stay open. This task force will bring these issues to light and help us to come up with feasible solutions.”

Established in 1982, the Legislative Commission on Rural Resources is comprised of members of both the Assembly and Senate who focus on the interests and concerns of the many rural counties that make up a large portion of New York State. In addition to reviewing existing legislation and regulations that impact rural areas, the 10-member commission recommends policy and new legislation to protect these communities, examines the impact of rural resources on the state economy and studies programs meant to promote rural viability. Last year, the commission hosted a hearing on rural broadband access, where it heard from stakeholders to identify broadband coverage gaps in rural New York counties and discussed relevant legislation.