Assemblyman Jones: State of the State Proposals Offer Potential, Hope for North Country Families
Assemblyman Billy Jones (D-Plattsburgh) is ready for another successful legislative year in the Assembly after listening to the governor’s State of the State address. The governor’s speech included several proposals that would improve the North Country and move the state forward.
“From improving voting laws to investing in our public schools, 2019 was good to the North Country,” said Jones. “I look forward to continue working for the region in the upcoming legislative session. Although we face a significant budget deficit, I will help ensure that our families don’t lose out on vital resources and services.”
Since many North Country communities still lack reliable cell phone coverage, the work done by the Upstate Cellular Task Force is crucial. Jones noted that he was thrilled/ disappointed that the governor mentioned/didn’t mention the task force’s recommendations and looks forward to making them a reality for local families.
The governor proposed several initiatives that Assemblyman Jones supports that would benefit North Country residents and boost the local economy. This includes pushing the economy forward by lifting archaic prohibition-era liquor laws that prevent the state’s growing craft beverage economy from expanding.[1] To help fight crime and the opioid epidemic, other proposals would ban fentanyl analogs and make their possession a criminal offense and make it illegal for sex offenders to use social media and dating apps.[2],[3]
The governor also proposed a comprehensive three-part plan to reduce prescription drug prices in New York. This proposal would cap insulin payments at $100 per month, give state entities the power to investigate pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) and drug manufacturers and hold them accountable for any extreme increases in drug prices. PBMs negotiate with companies to determine drug prices, and would face the same regulatory policy as insurance agencies when determining price.[4] Finally, it would create Prescription Importation Commission to study the benefits of creating a Canadian drug importation program.[5]
__________________________________________________________________[4] centerforbiosimilars.com/news/ama-calls-for-statelevel-legislation-to-rein-in-pbms