This week, Assemblyman Will Barclay (R,I,Ref-Pulaski) joined members of the Assembly Minority Conference in signing a letter to the governor and legislative leaders requesting $150,000 be allocated to the American Legion Boys State program in the state budget for its 100^th anniversary. American Legion Boys State is a week-long program that offers high school seniors an opportunity to gain leadership training and first-class citizenship skills through government operations exercises, physical fitness, teamwork and other activities. The program is led by American Legion councilors and active duty marines. The American Legion has received $150,000 each of the past five years.

“Over the years, the American Legion has helped thousands of students and made numerous contributions to our state,” said Barclay. “The Boys State program offers students invaluable life skills that will benefit them as they graduate from high school and move on to bigger and better things. To commemorate its 100^th anniversary and thank them for the work they’ve done in New York state, I ask the governor and fellow legislative leaders to allocate $150,000 as in years past. Only with our help can we ensure it continues making a positive impact in our state.”