Assemblywoman Russell announces strategy to win all $1.5 billion in economic investment

Assemblywoman Addie Russell (D – Theresa) announced today her thoughts on a strategy to win the governor's competition for $1.5 billion in economic development investment.

"We should engage in a bold attempt to secure all $1.5 billion to support the economy in the northern part of New York State," said Assemblywoman Russell.

She suggested partnering with neighboring regional councils to support cross regional projects that focus on increasing exports, both in goods and services. 

"Strengthening the physical and virtual ties between Central New York and the Mohawk Valley with the St. Lawrence River Valley and Adirondacks will benefit key sectors in our shared economic drivers.  Higher education, defense, tourism and our Canadian connection provide the basis for cooperation and will give our projects an unbeatable edge over the competition."

Russell noted that the capital district and parts of the southern tier may provide similar opportunities for the North Country as well.  Strong infrastructure that supports the movement of goods throughout the region and to major ports and access points to international markets will help our manufacturers and farmers, as well as our educational and natural attractions.

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Assemblywoman Russell calls for fair funding for North Country schools

Russell education advisory group to meet; urges utilization of 

state surplus to save schools

“Today I joined advocates across the state calling for fair funding of our education system,” Assemblywoman Addie Russell (D-Theresa) said. “Schools in the North Country are in crisis and I will continue to make sure education funding is a priority during the upcoming budget talks. I also expect this to be one of the areas we discuss in my newly formed education policy advisory group which will be meeting soon.”

Russell also believes a portion of the $5 billion state surplus should be used to help schools ravaged by cuts during the recession.

“By utilizing a fraction of the state’s one-time windfall surplus, we could provide some relief that is long overdue to our schools in the North Country – it’s the right thing to do,” Russell said.

North Country schools have seen a loss in education funding due to the Gap Elimination Adjustment (GEA), effecting schools in both Jefferson and St. Lawrence counties. Last year alone, our schools lost over $1.3 million due to the GEA, which Assemblywoman Russell fought to restore. Russell was able to help restore almost $1 million of funding.

“We need real solutions for the short-term and long-term to ensure high-quality education is available for all of our students here, and by working with our schools and community members, I’m hopeful for a positive outcome,” Russell concluded.

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Assemblywoman Russell’s bill to increase access to telehealth services signed into law

Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell (D-Theresa) announced that legislation she authored requiring health insurers to pay for telehealth services was signed into law last week (Ch. 550 of 2014). This was priority legislation of the Rural Resources Commission which she co-chairs with Senator Cathy Young, and it will result in expanding the availability of these services.

“Here in the North Country, access to primary care physicians and particularly specialists is seriously limited,” said Assemblywoman Russell. “The availability of telehealth services will help ensure our families get the high-quality care they deserve, while reducing costs for essential medical services, travel costs, and the demands of travel.”

            Telehealth is a rapidly expanding field that uses technology to allow patients easy access to doctors and health care professionals they wouldn’t normally be able to access due to distance. Assemblywoman Russell’s legislation requires insurers to cover the cost of these services for policyholders, opening new opportunities to bring much-needed health care to rural and underserved communities.

            “Long distances, unpredictable weather and after-hours emergencies should never stand in the way of necessary treatment,” said Assemblywoman Russell. “This legislation helps ensure that North Country families will have access to quality health care and medical advice at any time, from convenient locations.”

             HANYS President Dennis Whalen said, “Through telehealth services, patients across the state will be able access the care they need in an easier, cost effective way, by using modern technology.  This HANYS-supported legislation will enable patients in rural and underserved communities to receive essential care.  Connecting providers to patients will improve the health of New Yorkers and support the tremendous transformation underway in healthcare delivery.  HANYS extends its thanks to Assemblywoman Addie Russell and Senator Cathy Young for their leadership on this issue, and all the sponsors and supporters of this legislation."

            The bill reflects recommendations by the North Country Health Systems Redesign Commission, of which Assemblywoman Russell has been a member since its formation in late 2013. The commission was tasked with ensuring that all communities in the North Country have access to an effective and integrated health care system.

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Statement from Assemblywoman Addie Russell on being sworn in for her fourth term

"Today I was sworn in as the Member of Assembly for the 116th 'River' District for a fourth term. It is an honor and a privilege to have served for three previous terms and I very much look forward to working with our entire legislative delegation from the North Country as we address the critical issues facing our region and our state.  As always, I promise to continue work hard and be a strong voice for the North Country."

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Assemblywoman Addie Russell Statement on Mario Cuomo

"Today I attended the funeral for Governor Mario Cuomo. It was a touching service for a great man, an inspiration to many. Governor Mario Cuomo left an indelible mark on New York State and on this nation. His spirit of inclusiveness, of working to raise up all people, and unmatched statesmanship, made him one of the greatest leaders of our time. My thoughts and prayers are with his family."

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Assemblywoman Addie Russell welcomes new US Representative Elise Stefanik

"I welcome Elise Stefanik as our new Congressional Representative for the North Country. I am confident that she will work hard for the citizens of the 21st Congressional District. Her appointment to the House Armed Services Committee will enable her to be a strong voice for Fort Drum. I look forward to working with her and building a new relationship that will enable us to strengthen the economy by luring businesses to the area that will create new jobs."

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