“As the budget process goes underway, I’ll fight for a budget that will help North Country families succeed right here at home. We must ensure a fair budget that includes tax relief for middle-class families, an increase in education aid for North Country schools, a plan to combat the heroin epidemic and investments in our local economy. I’ll also look to ensure that these important initiatives are fully funded and don’t burden local taxpayers.

“Tax relief will go a long way toward helping North Country families keep more of their hard-earned money. In addition, increasing Foundation Aid for our schools will ensure all of our children have access to a top-notch education. I’ll also hold the governor to his word to bring broadband internet access to all New Yorkers by 2018. It’s time rural North Country communities and businesses had broadband access so they can better compete in the 21st-century economy.

“Additionally, we must commit ourselves to fighting the heroin epidemic and improving community safety. This epidemic has claimed too many lives and it’s clear we need more funding to properly address this crisis.”