Assemblyman Phil Palmesano (R,C,I,REF-Corning) has moved up the leadership ladder after being assigned a new leadership post by Assembly Minority Leader Brian M. Kolb (R,C,I,REF-Canandaigua). Kolb has appointed Palmesano Vice-Chairman of the Assembly Minority Conference.

“I am excited to continue as part of the leadership team in this new role,” said Palmesano. “I appreciate the continued trust and confidence Leader Kolb has placed in me and look forward to working with my colleagues to advocate for policies that will improve the quality of life for the residents we serve.”

Additionally, Palmesano has been reappointed as the Ranking Minority Member of the Committee on Energy. He has served as the committee ranker since 2013.

“As Ranking Minority Member of the Energy Committee, I remain focused on seeking solutions to New York’s complex energy issues,” said Palmesano. “Fuel diversity, competitive markets and providing affordable and reliable sources of energy for our businesses and families across New York State must be a top priority, and I look forward to continuing my advocacy on that front.”

Palmesano’s newest committee assignment is his appointment as a member of the Assembly Correction Committee.

“The Correction Committee oversees many important areas. From policies and legislation that impact our correctional facility operations to crime victims and their families, I will be a voice for them while making it a top priority to ensure that the brave men and women who go to work every day in a challenging and dangerous environment are provided the resources and tools they need to keep order and be safe, said Palmesano. “I have toured a number of correctional facilities in and around my district while meeting with our dedicated correction officers. They have very serious concerns that need to be addressed. They’ve faced prison closures, budget cuts, violent inmates, increased assaults and an administration that is all too willing to take away disciplinary tools. I’ll be reminding my colleagues on the committee that correction officers are on the front lines of public safety and they deserve our unwavering and complete support.”

Palmesano will also continue to serve on the following Assembly Committees: Corporations, Authorities and Commissions; Libraries and Education Technology; and Tourism, Arts and Sports Development.