A Statement by Assemblyman Phil Palmesano (R,C,I-Corning)

“I am honored and grateful to again be inducted into the New York Farm Bureau’s “Circle of Friends.” Since I was elected to the state Assembly in 2010, I’ve always done my best to advocate for our family farmers, and they’ve always been kind enough to include me in their “Circle of Friends.” They know what I’m fighting for: lower taxes, fewer regulations and reliable, affordable energy solutions. This session, I worked with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to restore millions in proposed cuts to agricultural local assistance programs. I also sponsored a bill which will provide farmers with valuable tax credits when they donate products to food pantries and local food banks. It was included in last year’s state budget and will benefit farmers in our community.

“Our farmers are the cornerstone of New York State. They model our best values- hard work, persistence and integrity. They feed our families and they power our economy. I’m grateful for their recognition.”

Other area legislators, including Assembly Minority Leader Brian Kolb, Sen. Tom O’Mara, Sen. Pam Helming, Assemblyman Chris Friend, Assemblyman Joe Giglio, and Assemblyman Gary Finch were also recognized this year.

Statement from the New York Farm Bureau:

“New York Farm Bureau congratulates Assemblyman Palmesano for being named to the 2017 Circle of Friends. It recognizes his voting record on a host of bills that are important to farmers in his district and the rural economy as a whole. We look forward to continued collaboration with him as the new session is about to get underway in Albany,” said David Fisher, New York Farm Bureau President.