Assemblywoman Russell visits Porterdale Farm as part of Farm Bureau tour

Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell joins Farm Bureau area field advisor John Wagner (l) and Greg Porter (r) during a tour of the Porterdale Farms in Rodman. Farm Bureau has been co-sponsoring tours of local farms in an effort to give elected officials a first-hand look at current manure storage practices and technology and to discuss the impact of manure storage regulations on farmers.

Assemblywoman Russell applauds new funding for recovery center in Watertown area

On Wednesday the state Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services awarded $1.75 million to Watertown's Pivot for the creation of a recovery center for people struggling with addiction to opioids.

“This funding is incredibly important to the North Country community where we have seen too many lives torn apart by substance abuse issues. Pivot’s new recovery center has the potential to turn lives around and enable people to move on,” Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, said.

“This facility fits into a larger effort to combat the substance abuse epidemic that is sweeping across New York," the assemblywoman noted. "Recently I have worked to get doctors and other medical professionals the training they need to be ready to deal with opioid addictions. At the state level I have worked with my colleagues in Albany to ensure our state takes a forward thinking stance on the opioid and heroin epidemic, including legislation to limit the availability of opioids, increase the access to treatment centers, and get first responders the training and tools they need while they’re on the front lines.”

Pivot is a non-profit organization that works to reduce the negative impact of alcohol, other drug abuse and addictions in our community by facilitating a unified approach to prevention involving all sectors of our community in the provision of services, education and advocacy.

To learn more about the work Pivot does, click here to visit their website.

Assemblywoman Russell secures funding to expand all access trail at Redwood Hill Preserve

Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, has announced she has secured $125,000 in funding for the Indian River Lakes Conservancy that will be used to expand an all access trail on a 51-acre parcel in the Redwood Hill Preserve.

She made the announcement Saturday morning during the dedication of a 1,000 square foot screened in wooden building that will be used as a trailside classroom at the site. Plans also call for an overlook with a clear view of Butterfield Lake from the edge of a cliff on the property.

"This trail will ensure that everyone can enjoy the preserve from young parents with babies in strollers to grandparents and our disabled veterans with mobility issues," Assemblywoman Russell said.

"The Indian River watershed is a vital part of the region's economy. The conservancy's work will enable the community to better access our spectacular scenery as well as ensure environmental concerns are addressed for the long-term health of the watershed," she added.

The Indian River Lakes Conservancy is currently working on developing the property that was donated to the organization a year ago. The conservancy received a state grant last year through the North Country Regional Economic Development for the construction of an eight-tenths of a mile handicap accessible trail.

Elliot (Sandy) Hillback, co-founder and president of the Indian River Lakes Conservancy, said the funding secured by Assemblywoman Russell will allow the trail to be expanded by another approximately half mile.

Mr. Hillback said the trail will now reach a grove of seven old oak trees on the northern edge of the property. He suggested extending the trail will create a wooded all access trail that is unique in the North Country, and a picnic area will be placed near the trees.

"Assemblywoman Russell and the New York State Conservation Partnership Program have really helped us grow over the past few years. This money from Assemblywoman Russell is valuable and comes at the right point in time," Mr. Hillback said.

He said the additional funds will have both fiscal and environmental benefits. Mr. Hillback said working on the trail in phases would have required moving heavy pieces of equipment on existing trail, likely damaging that portion of the trail and generating additional expenses for repairs.

Mr. Hillback said the new trail will be fully complaint with Americans with Disabilities Act requirements, and he is optimistic the work will be completed during next year's construction season.

"The trail will have gentle slopes and rock dust as a base. It will be accessible for wheelchairs, walkers and strollers," he noted.

The Indian River Lakes Conservancy was formed in 1998. Henry Carse, a pioneering environmentalist and civic leader, inspired the creation of Indian River Lakes Conservancy with his gift of the 26-acre Osprey Point Marsh on Butterfield Lake. In 2003, his second gift of more than 800 acres between Butterfield and Grass Lakes became the Grand Lake Reserve.

Now the conservancy owns and protects 2,277 acres of land, with six miles of well used trails, primarily in the towns of Alexandria and Theresa in Jefferson County.

The conservancy also recently received a donation of a 354-acre parcel in Natural Bridge, near the source of the Indian River. He said plans call for the establishment of walking and cross country ski trails on the property as well as an overlook near a beaver pond.

The conservancy is also involved in a water project focused on improving the water quality in the Indian River and the 18 lakes in the Indian River watershed. The group also hosts public events and educational programs.

IN THE PHOTOS:

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Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell joined members of the Indian River Lakes Conservancy at the dedication of the trailside classroom at the Redwood Hills Preserve. The board recognized Dick Edgar and Ron Tibbles, who built the trailside classroom, donating all labor costs. Board members include President Elliot Hillback, Vice President Mark Scarlett, Treasurer Ed Robertson, Secretary Denise Robertson, Matthew Carney, Gerald Cole, Jan Douglass, Richard Edgar, Rich LeClerc Tamala Lueck, Jim Ninos and director emeritus Shirley Carpenter.

BOTTOM:

Indian River Lakes Conservancy staff member April Fredericks, coordinator of public programs and administration, joins members of the board of directors at the dedication of a trailside classroom.

Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell has secured funding that will allow the Indian River Lakes Conservancy to expand a planned all access trail at Redwood Hill.

Assemblywoman Russell: More than $300,000 awarded to libraries in St. Lawrence, Jefferson counties

Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, has announced over $300,000 in public library construction funds has been awarded to libraries in St. Lawrence and Jefferson counties.

The funds will enable local libraries to build new space, make necessary building improvements to replace aging heating systems,complete roof work and perform exterior renovations.

"Our libraries are the core of our communities. They operate on tight budgets, and this state funding not only addresses needed repairs but will save our libraries money by reducing operating costs down the road. These grants will help ensure that our libraries will continue to be resources in our communities for years to come," Assemblywoman Russell said.

The funds are from $14 million in capital funds for public library construction provided in the 2015 state budget.

The North Country Library System received $129,250 to install a solar array for increased energy and energy independence.

Local libraries receiving funding include:

• Crosby Public Library, Antwerp: $70.952 for mechanical and electrical renovations including energy efficient lighting and plumbing, HVAC and boiler improvements.

• Macsherry Library, Alexandria Bay: $16,308 for a roof replacement project.

• Massena Public Library: $35,401 to replace an inefficient, outdated HVAC system.

• Norwood Public Library: $10,954 to build new space for programming and community events.

• Canton Free Library: $22,019 for meeting room renovations and an additional $18,176 to install a well, septic system and plumbing to a handicap accessible bathroom at the library's Morley branch, which will also see improvements to the front entrance accessibility.

• Heuvelton Free Library: $7,913 to renovate community programming space.

• Ogdensburg Public Library: $29,882 for exterior renovations and rehabilitation of the front entrance.

Assemblywoman Russell pointed out she had also secured an additional $125,000 in funding for both the Ogdensburg and Antwerp libraries.

"I am happy to have been able to secure funding - in addition to the construction grants - to help libraries meet their funding requirements," she said.

New York’s public libraries are in urgent need of renovation and upgrading.

A recent survey showed a documented need for public library construction and renovation projects totaling more than $2.2 billion.

More than 51 percent of the over 1,000 public library buildings in communities across New York are over 60 years old.

Another 33 percent are more than three decades old.

Many of New York’s local public libraries are unable to accommodate users with disabilities, are energy inefficient, cannot provide Internet and computer and other electronic technologies to users because of outdated and inadequate electrical wiring and do not have sufficient space to house the library’s expanding collection, address the need for adequate meeting room or provide for public access computers.

Project activities and expenditures eligible for grants from the state aid from the library construction program include financing construction of new library buildings, construction of additions to existing buildings, and the renovation and/or rehabilitation of existing space, including roof replacement, purchase and installation of alternative energy resources and new HVAC systems, windows, doors, and lighting systems, electrical upgrades, and construction of new or replacement of old walkways and parking lots, among other things.

New furniture, shelving and equipment, including computer equipment, can be purchased for new or newly reconfigured or renovated space.

Renovations designed to provide accessibility for patrons with disabilities is a high priority.

In the 2016 state budget, the Legislature provided $19 million for projects that will be announced in spring 2017.

IN THE PHOTOS:

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Gabriel Ashley, 9, of Chase Mills enjoys an afternoon at a local library.

BOTTOM:

Kady Newton, 12, (foreground) and Taylor Harris check out a Facebook post at Waddington's Hepburn Library.

State funding secured by Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, as well as state library funds, allowed the Crosby Public Library to expand its facility. Assemblywoman Russell is shown at the recent groundbreaking ceremony on the library grounds.

The Morley Branch of the Canton Free Library was awarded funding for infrastructure improvements. Assemblywoman Russell visited the library and met with its board of directors.

Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell joined youngsters for a tea party at Waddington's Hepburn Library.

Assemblywoman Russell helps pass legislation to combat heroin epidemic

Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, announced she helped pass a series of bills to address the heroin and opioid epidemic ravaging communities across the state.

The legislation expands access to treatment services, provides training to medical professionals and the public and limits opioid prescriptions, among other critical steps to get those affected on the road to recovery.

“The problem of opioid and heroin addiction will not be solved overnight, but these measures will help save lives now,” Assemblywoman Russell said. “This legislation will place a focus on opioid prescriptions, which we know is an important issue in this battle.”

The legislative package includes a measure to educate doctors and ensure those prescribed opioids are aware of the risk of addiction. It also aims to prevent misuse by limiting an initial opioid prescription to a seven-day supply, and requires insurance companies to provide coverage for a minimum of 14 days of inpatient treatment without prior authorization (A.10727).

The legislation also expands access to treatment and recovery services. One measure increases the amount of time an individual incapacitated by drugs or alcohol can be kept at a treatment facility for detoxification services and requires those facilities to provide specific information in their discharge planning to help ensure individuals are connected with treatment after they detox (A.10725).

It also requires insurers to provide five days of coverage for withdrawal treatment and eliminates the need for prior authorization by managed care companies for buprenorphine and Vivitrol – drugs used to treat opioid dependence.

Another piece of legislation will allow social workers and certain other licensed professionals to administer Narcan – a drug which counteracts an opioid overdose – in an emergency (A.10726).

It would also require the state to issue quarterly reports on overdoses and Narcan use, on a county-by- county basis, and require hospitals to implement discharge planning for patients who have – or are at risk for – a substance use disorder.

Assemblywoman Russell has also taken a more hands-on approach in the North Country to combat heroin- and opioid-related addictions by hosting a training course for medical professionals to be able to prescribe buprenorphine last week in Alexandria Bay.

The training course was co-sponsored by the Alliance for Better Communities, Fort Drum Regional Health Planning Organization and North Country Initiative.

She also introduced legislation that makes comprehensive information pertaining to opioid overdoses more readily available to the public (A.10062) as well as legislation that would require certain law enforcement officers to carry medication that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose (A.10492).

Assemblywoman Russell announces 2016 Summer Reading Challenge

Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell (D-Theresa) announced the kick-off of the Assembly’s annual Summer Reading Challenge, inviting North Country children to participate in this enriching experience.

This challenge is in partnership with the New York State Library and encourages children to continue reading during the summer, building on the educational progress they made throughout the school year.

“The importance of reading and how it helps children’s development and success cannot be overstated,” Assemblywoman Russell said. “When children read more, they not only improve their reading skills, but they become better writers and spellers as well.”

The Summer Reading Challenge also improves a child’s ability to retain what they learned during the school year. It is estimated that the average student loses a month of instruction during summer breaks, which disproportionately affects disadvantaged students.

“The Summer Reading Challenge is about reducing the summer learning loss and encouraging children and parents to make reading and learning a year-long activity,” Assemblywoman Russell said. “Making a habit of reading a little bit every day can have a tremendous impact on a student’s success. I encourage everyone to participate.”

To complete the challenge, children must read for a minimum of 15 minutes every day for at least 40 days throughout the months of July and August. Children can read alone or with a partner, marking off the days on a provided calendar. Packets with additional information about the program have been provided to the elementary schools in the 116th Assembly District.

They must mark off the days they read on a calendar and send it to Assemblywoman Russell’s office at the end of the summer. Children who complete the challenge are rewarded with the Assembly Excellence in Reading Certificate for their hard work and dedication.

Packets with additional information about the program have also been shared with elementary schools throughout the 116th Assembly District.

For more information about the program, contact Assemblywoman Addie Russell by email at russella@assembly.state.ny.us or call her office at 315-786- 0284 or visit summerreadingnys.org.

Assemblywoman Russell: Assembly passes bill allowing transfer of psych center land to city of Ogdensburg

The state Assembly has passed legislation sponsored by Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, that will allow the transfer of approximately 56 acres of land on the grounds of the St. Lawrence Psychiatric Center to the city of Ogdensburg for redevelopment.

It was the latest step in the city's effort to gain control over approximately 160 acres of property on the 400-acre psych center grounds. The St. Lawrence Psychiatric Center has centralized its operation on the grounds over the past several years, leaving prime real estate bordering the St. Lawrence River and state Route 37 off the tax rolls.

"This land transfer will provide a great opportunity for growth in the city and allow for the utilization of waterfront property on the shores of the St. Lawrence River. It's important to reincorporate that now vacant and unused property back into a valuable resource for the community. The city will benefit from having that valuable real estate back on the tax rolls," Assemblywoman Russell said.

The legislation, which has also been passed by the state Senate, calls for a 50-acre parcel, including nine of 14 buildings on the site, to be transferred to the city at fair market value. The parcel stretches from the St. Lawrence River shoreline to River Drive between the Bridgeview and Trinity buildings. 

That property is being eyed for residential development, and the legislation requires 15 percent of proposed rental units be made available to Office of Mental Health recipients in need of supported housing.

A separate 6.4 acre parcel, currently under the jurisdiction of the Department of Corrections and Community Services, is being targeted as a site for commercial development.

The city announced in January it had reached an agreement to purchase a 45-acre parcel on the psych center grounds for $265,000 from the state's Office of General Services. That property is zoned for light industry and institutional uses.

Assemblywoman Russell: Changes in ABC law will benefit North Country tourism initiatives

The state Assembly passed legislation Friday that will allow bars, taverns and restaurants to begin selling alcohol for on-premises consumption at 10 a.m. on Sundays.

The bill rolls back several provisions of the 80-year-old Alcohol and Beverage Control blue laws, including a rule that prohibits the sale of alcohol for on premises consumption before noon on Sundays.

Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, said she supported the legislation, which passed the Assembly by a 106-21 vote.

"This proposal had strong support in our region. This will be a benefit for establishments that feature Sunday morning brunches, including resorts catering to guests that are critical to the growth of our tourism industry. Other provisions of the law will benefit our growing wine and craft brewery businesses in our state. This will also be a welcome addition as we promote our ever growing wine trails in the North Country," Assemblywoman Russell said.

Other provisions of the law will benefit our growing wine and craft brewery businesses in our state," Assemblywoman Russell said.

Some of the changes included in legislation:

• Expands Sunday sales at restaurants and bars by changing the statewide opening hours from noon to 10 am. In addition, the agreement enables these licensees to apply for a permit, limited to twelve per year, to sell alcoholic beverages for consumption on the premises on Sundays between 8 a.m. and the new 10 a.m.opening hour in areas outside New York City.

• Combines craft manufacturing licenses into one application to reduce paperwork for small businesses.

• Allows wineries to fill their customer’s growlers. In addition, the agreement authorizes wineries and farm wineries to allow customers to take home partially finished bottles of wine.

• Permits liquor stores to sell gift wrapping and gift bags to their customers.

Proponents argued the Blue Laws were antiquated and dated back to an era when the population was much less diverse.

The Sunday morning provision of the new law will take effect immediately after Governor Andrew M. Cuomo signs the law.

Assemblywoman Russell announces passage of pension forfeiture legislation

Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, has announced legislation she co-sponsored to ensure public officers convicted of corruption do not receive taxpayer-funded pensions (A.7704, Buchwald) passed the state Assembly.

"The people of the North Country have had enough of corrupt politicians taking advantage of the faith placed in them. I cast my vote in favor of legislation stripping pensions from public officials who have violated the public’s trust," Assemblywoman Russell said.

"Clearly public officials who violate the public trust should not be rewarded by being allowed to collect their pensions. Corruption has no place in our state and those who have abused their power must face the full consequences of their actions," she added.

"That is why I felt it was so important to co-sponsor this legislation. We must continue to enact tough standards to ensure our government is working for the people. This is a critical first step, and I will continue to fight for legislation to close the limited liability corporation campaign funding loophole and to limit outside income for state legislators. These are common sense good government initiatives,” Assemblywoman Russell said.

The proposed constitutional amendment would apply to all elected officials at the state and local level, judges, executive appointees, policymakers, municipal managers, department heads and chief fiscal officers.

The Assembly's amendment now moves to the state Senate. After the amendment passes the Senate, it would need to pass again during the next legislative term, 2017-18, to be placed on the ballot as a public referendum needing voter approval to change the New York State Constitution.

Public officials who joined the state retirement system after Nov. 13, 2011 already face the potential loss of their pension benefits if they are convicted of corruption charges directly related to their role as public officials.

Assemblywoman Russell co-sponsors legislation calling for safe staffing levels at hospitals, nursing homes

Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, has announced the passage of legislation she co-sponsored requiring acute care facilities and nursing homes to adopt minimum staffing requirements, establishing a safe nurse-patient ratio.

She has called on her colleagues in the New York State Senate to pass the legislation that will ensure nurses have the staffing levels necessary to provide quality care to their patients.

"I've supported this legislation for years and will continue to push for safe staffing ratios to become law. This is an issue of patient safety, and it is central to our state's effort to create better health outcomes. I urge my colleagues in the Senate to take up this legislation," Assemblywoman Russell said.

The bill (A.8580-A, Gunther) would require a hospital or nursing home’s application for an operating certificate to contain a staffing plan with standards for nurse-patient ratios and require compliance with the standards established.

Additionally, it would require acute care facilities to publicly disclose their staffing requirements and direct the Department of Health to consider an applicant’s staffing violations when reviewing applications and renewals for its operating certificate.

Research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, estimates five additional deaths per 1,000 patients in hospitals routinely staffing with only 1:8 nurse-to-patient ratios compared to those staffing with 1:4 nurse-to-patient ratios.

This same study determined the odds of patient death increased by 7 percent for each additional patient the nurse must care for at one time.

Assemblywoman Russell said studies have shown that hospitals with lower nurse staffing levels have higher rates of pneumonia, shock, cardiac arrest, urinary tract infections and upper gastrointestinal bleeds.

She noted those conditions lead to higher costs for hospitals, and more people die from complications stemming from their lack of appropriate care due to inadequate staffing levels.

Research has also shown safe nurse staffing levels have a positive impact on the care of patients at nursing homes, according to Assemblywoman Russell.

"I have heard from nurses at health care facilities in the 116th Assembly District that they are concerned about staffing levels, recognizing they are being spread too thin by high patient loads that directly impact patient care and patient outcomes," she said.

Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther said safe staffing levels instituted at hospitals in California and New Jersey have generated positive results, both for patients and hospitals.

She told her colleagues hospitals in California actually saw a 3 percent increase in their profits after enacting safe staffing legislation. Her comments came in response to concerns about the fiscal impact of the legislation on hospitals and nursing homes.

"That increase in profitability could mean the difference between hospitals being able to stay open and being forced to close their doors," Assemblywoman Russell said.

IN THE PHOTO:

Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, was joined by colleagues from the New York State Assembly and nurses from around the state at a rally Wednesday outside the state Senate chambers.

Assemblywoman Russell supports legislation expanding organ donation to more teenagers

Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, has voiced her support for a bill she cosponsored that has passed the New York State Assembly that would allow 16 and 17 year olds to register to donate their organs.

State law currently requires a prospective donor to be 18 or older to register their consent to donate their organs, eyes and tissue in the New York State Donate Life Registry.

The bill does, however, maintain the right of a potential donor's parents or legal guardian to make the decision regarding donation at the time of death if it occurs before the potential donor turns 18.

Assemblywoman Russell noted New York State is currently one of just five states in the country that prohibits 16 and 17 year olds from enrolling in organ and tissue donation programs.

She said most people sign up to be organ donors when they are getting or renewing their licenses. But Assemblywoman Russell said the current law excludes 16 and 17 year olds from having that option when they go to the Department of Motor Vehicles to get their Junior Licenses.

She pointed out the DMV automatic renewal process does not provide an opportunity to ask those drivers to complete the organ and tissue donation section on their license applications until they are in their late 20s.

"Allowing younger teens to register for the organ and tissue registry could have a number of benefits. It will provide parents and guardians with guidance of their child's wishes if something terrible was to happen. It would also be a sobering reminder for young drivers of the dangers that accompany that privilege," Assemblywoman Russell said.

The need for organs for transplant is far greater than the supply in New York State. The state's Donate Life Registry is currently ranked 51st out of the 52 existing registries in the country.

There are currently more than 10,000 New Yorkers are on the national transplant waiting list. One person dies every 15 hours in New York State because an organ did not become available to save their life.

One single organ donor can save the lives of 8 people, and a tissue donor can improve 50 lives by restoring eyesight, treating burn patients and preventing the loss of mobility and disability.

Assemblywoman Russell’s bill to support veterans who endured sexual trauma passes Assembly

Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell (D-Theresa) announced that legislation she authored requiring the state Division of Veterans’ Affairs to provide assistance to veterans who experienced military sexual trauma (MST) during their military service (A.7260A) has passed the Assembly on Wednesday.

Military sexual trauma refers to sexual assault or repeated threatening sexual harassment that took place during a veteran’s service and can be a stressor for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

This bill would require the state Division of Veterans’ Affairs to develop a plan to provide assistance and benefits for veterans who experienced sexual trauma while on active duty or during military training.

The legislation would also require county and city veterans service agencies, including the Jefferson County Veterans Service Agency and the St. Lawrence County Veterans Department, to assist members of the armed forces by reporting information on MST.

“MST continues to be a serious issue that requires immediate solutions,”
Assemblywoman Russell said. “The brave members of our armed forces who have defended our country, including the men and women who were stationed at Fort Drum, shouldn’t have to wait any longer to have an adequate support system in place to help them on their path to recovery. The time to act is now.”

There were 6,083 reported assaults in Fiscal Year 2015, approximately a 180 percent increase from the prior fiscal year, according to a study released by the Pentagon.

Pentagon officials estimate nearly nine out of every 10 of sexual crimes that occur in the military go unreported. The Department of Veterans Affairs medical staff treated more than 68,000 veterans in 2010 who reported they had suffered some form of sexual trauma during their military service.

This marks the fifth consecutive year the bill has passed the state Assembly. It has yet to gain the support of the New York State Senate,

“As chair of the Women Veterans Subcommittee and a member of the Veterans’ Affairs Committee, I understand that our service members can no longer afford inaction on this issue,” Assemblywoman Russell said. “I call on members of the state Senate to join us in support of this bill. We owe it to those who have served our country to enact this important piece of legislation.”

The bill was passed on the same day Assemblywoman Russell introduced a resolution oasking Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim June 12 as Women Veterans Recognition Day in New York State.
She noted there are currently 66,000 known women veterans from New York State.

It also came on the 68th anniversary of the signing of the Women's Armed Forces Service Act of 1948 by President Harry S. Truman.

Assemblywoman Russell continues efforts to address heroin epidemic in North Country

Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, says nine medical professionals have signed up to take a training course so they can be certified to prescribe Buprenorphine, an office-based treatment for opioid use disorders.

Assemblywoman Russell said Saturday's training course in Alexandria Bay stemmed from conversations she had about heroin and opioid addiction issues with recovery and treatment providers.

"They have repeatedly told me there are a lack of providers available for those in recovery; physicians who can prescribe medications that have proven successful in preventing people from falling back into the spiral of heroin addiction," she said.

The training course, sponsored by Assemblywoman Russell, is being co-sponsored by the Alliance for Better Communities, Fort Drum Regional Health Planning Organization and North Country Initiative.

There are just three physicians in Jefferson County who currently are certified to prescribe the medication, and two of the doctors, including one working for the CREDO treatment program, can only prescribe to patients in their programs.

Buprenorphine is a medication-based treatment used to help people quit or reduce their use of heroin or other opioids. When used in its prescribed dosages, Buprenorphine can assist patients in coping with the physically challenging side effects related to withdrawal from an opioid addiction.

Physicians who complete the eight-hour course, which includes 3.75 hours of online training, and pass an examination will be granted the waiver to prescribe Buprenorphine.

"In addition to several physicians, we also have medical professionals taking the course this weekend in anticipation that in the not so distant future the federal government will be changing its regulations to allow physician assistants and nurse practitioners to dispense Buprenorphine," she said.

Assemblywoman Russell said she feels it is important to take steps to address the heroin issues outside the parameters of the legislative process.

"A number of bills have been introduced in the state Assembly this legislative session, including two bills I am carrying," she said.

"I have introduced legislation (A10492) that would require members of the New York State Police and sheriff and city police departments to be trained in the use of a medication that reverses an opioid overdose. The officers would also be required to carry the medication in their patrol vehicles."

She noted she has also introduced a bill (A10062) aimed at improving tracking deaths from heroin and opioid abuse in New York State.

Assemblywoman Russell said data available on the state's heroin and opioid epidemic currently varies from county to county.

The bill introduced by Assemblywoman Russell would require the data to include the actual number of deaths year by year and county by county over a five-year period. It would also include information on pre-hospital services and emergency room visits related to heroin and opioid abuse.

"I know there are a number of other important bills addressing the issue that have been introduced by my colleagues in the state Assembly as well as a package that has the support of the majority in the state senate. I remain cautiously optimistic the two houses will reach agreement on legislation that can gain the necessary support before this session ends next week," Assemblywoman Russell said.

The Assembly has already allocated well over $20 million to fight the heroin and opioid epidemic, including $25 million to the Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services to implement a heroin and opiate treatment prevention package and $1 million for the state's Department of Environmental Conservation to conduct locally and federally approved drug collection programs that will result in the purchase and distribution of tamper-proof drug collection boxes.

But she stressed legislation will still remain just one part of her effort to play a leadership role in combatting the heroin epidemic in the North Country.

She pointed out, for example, that in addition to working to find more medical providers for those abusing opiates she has also worked to provide funding to police agencies in St. Lawrence and Jefferson counties to assist their crime fighting efforts.

She has secured $375,000 for local law enforcement in St. Lawrence and Jefferson counties since 2009, including $25,000 for the Massena Police Department.

Local police and sheriff’s departments have used this funding to purchase vehicles, computers and equipment used for drug investigations.

“Making our communities safe has always been a top priority of mine,” Assemblywoman Russell said.

“It’s imperative that local police departments have the resources they need to do their job effectively so that our families can feel safe in their homes, especially with the on-going drug epidemic. I will continue working closely with local officials to secure additional funding and help ensure public safety,” she said.

Heroin and opioid abuse has become a top area of concern for both public health officials and police departments in recent years.

According to a 2015 report conducted by the New York State Department of Health, there were 236 opioid-related emergency department admissions in 2014 in Jefferson County, a 300 percent increase from 2010. There were 177 admissions In St. Lawrence County, a 108 percent increase from 2010.

"Law enforcement can only be one of many tools we will need to use if we are going to have any success in our effort to reduce the magnitude of this crisis in our region, the state and the nation. It is clear continued education efforts and providing the necessary resources to addicts that want treatment are among the other critical elements in this effort," she added.

“We need to take a comprehensive approach to address the problem of opioid addiction in our community,” Assemblywoman Russell said. “By providing training and resources to law enforcement and public health officials, we can work together to help our communities deal effectively in addressing this problem.”

Assemblywoman Russell’s bill bringing more locally grown food to schools signed by governor

Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, announced Thursday legislation she authored to make it easier for school districts to purchase more locally grown food products was signed into law (Ch. 62 of 2016) this week.

“This law promotes local agriculture and will help strengthen small, family-owned farms in the North Country while at the same time ensuring that our children are provided with fresh, nutritious meals in school,” according to Assemblywoman Russell, chair of the Assembly Task Force on Food, Farm and Nutrition Policy. “It’s really a win for our students and our farmers.”

Under the law, school districts will now be allowed to purchase products from associations of growers, as long as they are for purchases of under $25,000, without needing the approval of the commissioner of education.

Assemblywoman Russell said the legislation stemmed from a request from St. Lawrence County farmers, who were finding it challenging to sell their products to local school districts due to the bureaucratic hurdles that needed to be crossed.

The law had previously required school districts to apply for permission from the commissioner of education to purchase food such as eggs, livestock, fish, or dairy products from separate growers and producers if there were more than 10 growers or producers in the association.

The bill was drafted as part of Assemblywoman Russell’s larger efforts to increase farm-to- school opportunities, including her “Drive for 25” pilot program, which is supported by the New York School Nutrition Association.

Assemblywoman Russell helped secure $300,000 in this year’s state budget for the Adirondack North Country Association to oversee the program, providing up to 25 cents more in reimbursements per lunch for schools that expand usage of local food products.

"Students should always have access to healthy meals so they can focus, learn and grow, and our local farmers should be given every opportunity to succeed," Assemblywoman Russell noted. "That was the goal of this legislation."

Assemblywoman Russell welcomes women veterans to Albany

Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, introduced a resolution on Wednesday asking Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim June 12 as Women Veterans Recognition Day in New York State.

She noted there are currently 66,000 known women veterans from New York State and females are now serving as members in all branches of the armed forces.

"We have women (here today) who have served in World War II, Korea, Vietnam, Desert Storm, Afghanistan and the War on Terror. Many received recognition and medals as a result of their service," Assemblywoman Russell noted from the floor of the state Assembly.

"Their military specialties include scientists; chemical biologists; radiological, nuclear and explosives operations; transportation specialists; medical technicians; medical surgery nurses and drill instructors, just to name a few," she added.

"All of them have served with honor. They are joining us today in conjunction with Women Veterans Recognition Day, and I just ask, Mr. Speaker, you give these special veterans a very warm welcome to our house today," Assemblywoman Russell said.

Several other members of the assembly also welcomed the women veterans joining them in the chamber on Wednesday.

Speaker Pro Tempore Jeffrion L. Aubry praised the women for their service.

"We welcome this extraordinary group of veterans here. We know our freedom to be here and speak is built on your shoulders. Thank you very much," he said.

The resolution introduced by Assemblywoman Russell, a member of the assembly's Veterans Affairs Committee and chair of the Subcommittee on Women Veterans, pointed out women serving in the military continue to demonstrate their professionalism, dedication, leadership, and skills, as well as the patriotism and love for their country and liberties, freedoms and rights it stands for as they mobilize in record numbers to support Operation Noble Eagle, Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation New Dawn, Operation Inherent Resolve and the Global War on Terrorism.

Women make up approximately 15 percent of today's active duty military, and 19.5 percent of the United States National Guard and United States Reserve forces are women.

There have been over 650 women wounded in war over the past 14 years and approximately 137 women have lost their lives while serving in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Kuwait.

The resolution noted the state Assembly was pausing in in its deliberations to pay tribute to the bravery, patriotism and sacrifice made by women, both those still living and those who died in service of the country, and to proudly commemorate the 68th Anniversary of the signing of the Women's Armed Forces Service Act of 1948 by President Harry S. Truman.

Assemblywoman Russell visits with Riverside Drive residents

Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, took a brief detour from the St. Lawrence County Dairy Princess parade route to hand out candy and visit with Riverside Drive residents in Canton.

Assemblywoman Russell honors workers who lost their lives during St. Lawrence Seaway construction

The St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation hosted a ceremony at Eisenhower Lock Friday afternoon to honor those killed during the construction of the seaway and power project in the late 1950s.

The families of five men who lost their lives during construction of the seaway - David Hanna, Leo Coolidge, Arlyn Pike, Floyd Pinkerton and Donald Wright - were on hand for the event.

Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, said it was sobering to speak at the ceremony and noted she hoped family members would be comforted to know the sacrifice of their loved ones who died working on the project will now have a permanent memorial at Eisenhower Lock.

"I'm honored to add my voice to commemorate the workers that lost their lives making these locks possible, making the entire seaway possible," she said.

"It is time and very fitting to hold this ceremony. I commend the seaway for recognizing the importance of the workers who lost their lives on this project and also the men and women who stood shoulder to shoulder with them," Assemblywoman Russell said.

Massena Deputy Mayor Matthew LeBire stressed the importance of focusing on the people involved in the construction of the St. Lawrence Seaway.

 “There’s a common theme that I see, and that is the people. It’s so fitting that we are doing this today to recognize people that did pay the ultimate sacrifice. Our biggest strength is not the resources we have. It is not the locks. It isn’t anything else. It’s the people,” Mr. LeBire said.

Daughters, sons, nephews and sisters remembered those men and shared stories of how they had lived their lives and how their lives were lost.

It was the story of a massive construction project that took 22,000 workers from late 1954 to 1959 to complete. Approximately 4,000 of those employees worked on the two U.S. locks - Eisenhower and Snell - and 10 miles of navigation.

The scope of the project included moving 17 million cubic yards that was dug out to create the channel, dredging river bottoms and erecting the two locks.

Eisenhower Lock is the result of 3 million cubic yards of excavation and 535,000 cubic yards of concrete, the equivalent of 59,500 ready mix loads, of concrete.

Power houses and hydroelectric dams were also built. The project also included moving farms, villages, houses, cemeteries, highways and railways on both sides of the border.

The human cost of the massive $475 million engineering and construction project nearly 60 years ago has been forgotten by many. But family members of those construction workers have lived a lifetime with those losses.

Bonnie Pearson, now in her mid 70's, led the effort to establish a memorial honoring those killed during the construction of the seaway and power project.She was 13 when her father died. He left his wife and five daughters ranging in age from 17 months to 15 when he was struck by the malfunctioning bucket on his crane on May 11, 1955.

“With everyone’s help, and also God’s, all things are possible, and here we are today,” Ms. Pearson said.

“There are likely many other similar stories of these incredible workers waiting to be shared. Let us never forget how these brave men contributed valiantly to this great achievement of building the St. Lawrence Seaway,” she said.

Ruby Shelton said her brother, Arlyn Pike, had only been working on the construction project a few months when he was involved in a truck accident.

John Pinkerton's uncle, Floyd Pinkerton, was killed in a motor vehicle accident between Ogdensburg and Waddington on his way to work on May 27, 1957.

John's father, Martin, was seriously injured in that same accident. Several other men in the vehicle were taken to the hospital for treatment of their injuries. The only passenger not injured in the accident that day went to work, John pointed out.

Leo Coolidge was 3 1/2 when his father's crane broke through a wooden platform and dropped 90 feet. His widow was left to raise their three sons - 3 and a half, 2 and 1 - at the time of his death.

Seaway officials noted the grueling conditions that workers went through during the construction of the seaway and the power project.

“Some of those dedicated individuals lost their lives in building what is now considered one of the world’s greatest engineering wonders," according to St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation Administrator Betty Sutton said.

"We are eternally grateful to those workers, and it is our duty, indeed our moral obligation to ensure that every visitor to the Seaway locks is made aware of the sacrifices of these pioneering workers,” she noted.

IN THE PHOTOS:

TOP:

Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell thanks Bonnie Pearson for the role she played in making sure workers who lost their lives during the construction of the St. Lawrence Seaway were properly recognized. The St. Lawence Seaway Development Corporation held an observance Friday afternoon to recognize those killed during the seaway construction. Ms. Pearson's father, David Hanna, was the first American killed during the construction of the waterway. He died in a crane accident on May 11, 1955.

BOTTOM:

A plaque remembering those whose lives were lost during the construction of the seaway will be placed on permanent display at Eisenhower Lock.

Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell visits with Polly McKeever following a ceremony honoring those killed during the construction of the St. Lawrence Seaway.

Massena Deputy Mayor Matthew LeBire and Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell are silhouetted as they examine a plaque honoring workers killed during the construction of the St. Lawrence Seaway.

Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell talks with Sue Worden following an observance recognizing those who died during work on the St. Lawrence Seaway and Power Project.

Assemblywoman Russell visits with St. Lawrence County's diary princess and members of her court

Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, (left) visits with St. Lawrence County Diary Princess Hannah Grant, Madrid, and members of her court, Ambassador Isabell Smith, Massena; Alternate Cameryn Chester, Madrid; and First Alternate Emily McBath, Madrid. Ambassador Joshua Godbou is missing from the photo. The visit took place prior to Saturday's St. Lawrence County Dairy Princess Parade in Canton.

Assemblywoman Russell says state takeover of indigent defense costs would benefit counties and justice

Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, said she was pleased by the overwhelming support for a bill (A.6202b) she co-sponsored calling for the state to reimburse counties and cities for providing indigent legal service.

"I have been a strong supporter of this legislation from day one. The cost of indigent defense is most onerous on poor counties, including St. Lawrence and Jefferson counties," she said.

"State funding of the indigent defense program will ensure defendants from all economic backgrounds have effective representation. This is an issue of fairness. It will also put all counties in the state on the same footing and provide important mandate relief for taxpayers in St. Lawrence and Jefferson counties," she added.

St. Lawrence County spent $2.3 million to fund its indigent defense program in 2014. The cost for indigent defense in Jefferson County is just under $2 million.

St. Lawrence County Attorney Stephen D. Button, a former public defender who has played a leadership role on the indigent defense funding issue, said he was pleased with the support the legislation received from the assembly members representing St. Lawrence County.

“For more than 50 years, counties in New York State have shouldered the burden of covering the expense of indigent defense through taxes assessed against their property owners," he said.

"Now, the State of New York is on the doorstep of assuming that cost and covering it through tax revenue unavailable to the counties. St. Lawrence County is pleased with this monumental step toward true unfunded mandate relief for the many property owners of St. Lawrence County," Mr. Button added.

"We are appreciative of the help and support shown by Assemblywoman (Patricia) Fahy, Assemblywoman Russell, Assemblyman (Ken) Blankenbush, Assemblyman (Marc) Butler and Assemblywoman (Janet) Duprey," he noted.

He said the legislation is expected to make it to the floor of the state Senate within the next two weeks.

"We look forward to an equal level of support in the New York State Senate from Senator (John) DeFrancisco, Senator (Patty) Ritchie, Senator (Joseph) Griffo and Senator (Betty) Little,” Mr. Button said.

The legislation is carried by Senator DeFrancisco (R-Syracuse), in the state Senate.

In the landmark decision of Gideon v. Wainwright over 50 years ago, the Supreme Court of the United States, ruled it is a fundamental right of all persons in the United States to be represented by counsel in all criminal proceedings.

The State of New York implemented this by mandating counties pay for their defense. A 2006 report chaired by the late former Chief Judge Judith Kaye labeled the state of public defense as an ‘ongoing crisis.’ Many counties do not have a system of supervising caseloads or standards to ensure comparable compensation for defenders.

This bill would provide counties with significant fiscal mandate relief by providing a full state fiscal takeover of indigent defense services. The proposed legislation would ensure that first-rate legal representation for indigents not be compromised and relieve county taxpayers from the state’s responsibility.

A class action lawsuit filed against the state resulted in a successful settlement making the state responsible for providing public defense in five counties - Suffolk, Washington, Ontario, Onondaga and Schuyler - for the cost of indigent legal services.

That settlement only applied to these five counties who brought suit. The settlement was based on the constitutional right of indigent individuals to have counsel in criminal cases.

Assemblywoman Russell: New York Health Act provides universal health care for all New Yorkers

Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, has announced the state Assembly passed legislation she co-sponsored that would create a universal plan to cover every New York State resident, known as the New York Health Act (A.5062-A).

"I have supported the single payer system for years. Health care is a fundamental human right – not a luxury. I think including everyone in one system is the best way to control and drive down costs,” she said.

She pointed out access to quality health insurance can literally be the difference between life and death.

"The Affordable Care Act was a step in the right direction, but it still has its problems. Health care is still inequitable and keeps some people from accessing basic health care," Assemblywoman Russell said.

"People are still racking up huge bills because of high co-pays and skyrocketing premiums. We can ensure that every New Yorker has the coverage they need. We have an opportunity to put people over profits and continue the goal to make sure hard working middle-class families have the same access to quality health care as the wealthiest New Yorkers," she added.

The New York Health Act would establish a universal health care system, known as New York Health, and would expand coverage eligibility to include all residents, regardless of wealth, income, age or health status.

In addition, every enrollee would have access to the full range of doctors and service providers offered. Benefits would include comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care, primary and preventive care, prescription drug costs, laboratory testing, rehabilitative care, dental, vision and hearing care.

As with private insurance, out-of-state care would be covered; both when residents are traveling and need health services or when there is a clinical reason to receive care outside the state, Assemblywoman Russell said.

Those providing or coordinating care would be fully paid by New York Health, with no co-pays or other charges to patients. Funding for the system would be based on a shared 80/20 employer/employee payroll tax contribution, eliminating the “regressive tax” of premiums, co-pays and deductibles currently imposed on patients regardless of their ability to pay.

She said under the current system too many people are faced with rising costs and crushing medical bills, and, in some cases, it’s causing them to go without critical care.

“Universal health care will help get the focus back on prevention and wellness, which will ultimately rein in health care costs and save taxpayer dollars,” according to Assemblywoman Russell.

With health care costs increasing nationally, considerable research has shown that a universal health care system would reduce costs and pass savings along to patients, consumers and taxpayers.

A 2009 state Department of Health report showed that this type of system would provide the lowest cost for universal coverage in comparison to systems relying on private and employer-based insurance. In addition, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention cites wellness and preventive health care as key measures that will help people live longer, more productive lives while reducing overall health care costs.

Assemblywoman Russell said she also believes the establishment of a universal health care system in New York State would benefit businesses.

"We need fairness in our health care system because it will lower costs and will help us attract a better workforce, particularly the skilled and professional workers that businesses want to hire," she noted.

Assemblywoman Russell applauds governor for signing bill extending retirement benefits to all veterans

Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell (D-Theresa) said she is pleased Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has signed legislation (A.9531, Paulin) she co-sponsored in the state Assembly to extend eligibility for additional credits in the state retirement system to all veterans.

The new law removes the existing date of service limitations and expands eligibility for the veteran's service credit to otherwise eligible veterans regardless of when they completed their military service.

Under the previous law, only those veterans who have served in specific military conflicts or during limited time frames are eligible to receive up to an additional three years of service credit in the pension system after completing five years of service in the state retirement system.

Other provisions of the current limitations have effectively excluded a significant number of female veterans from eligibility. As a result, there was a varied and inconsistent application of the benefit.

"I'm glad to see the Governor has finally signed this important legislation that recognizes the service our veterans have performed for our nation and our state. This long overdue legislation treats all veterans equally," Assemblywoman Russell said.

She said she has supported the legislation since it was first introduced in the state Assembly three years ago.

Assemblywoman Russell said the law limiting service credit to service in a specific country or conflict left out veterans who served in active combat or performed critical operations in other locations.

Military service credit had previously only been available to anyone who served during World War II (12/7/1941 to 12/31/1946), the Korean War (6/27/1950 to 1/31/1955) and the War in Vietnam (2/28/1961 to 5/7/1975).

The benefit was also extended to veterans that had received an expeditionary medal for service in the military conflicts in Lebanon (6/1/1983 to 12/1/1987), Grenada (10/23/1983 to 11/21/1983) and Panama (12/20/1989 to 1/31/1990).

Men and women who have served in the theater of operations in Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, the Persian Gulf, and the Red Sea since Aug. 2, 1990 were eligible to buy back military service credit without receipt of an expeditionary medal.

But Assemblywoman Russell said troops that had participated in active combat in Somalia, Bosnia, Haiti, Kosovo, Afghanistan, Pakistan and the Korean DMZ were previously not not eligible for the military service credit.

She pointed out military personnel aiding in any of those operations from other locations, such as Israel, Turkey and Germany, had also been ineligible to access this credit buyback. Veterans who served around the world in dangerous situations during the Cold War were also excluded.


"When our young men and women enlist in the military, they are expressing a willingness to accept the risks they will face when they answer the call to duty. All members of the armed forces have played and continue to play a critical role in our nation's defense, and all of our veterans have earned the opportunity to buy back the military service credit," she said.

Assemblywoman Russell introduces bill aimed at equitable school funding for districts with high amounts of tax-exempt property

Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, has introduced legislation that would require the state to provide additional aid to school districts that contain high percentages of tax- exempt property (A10126).

"This is a major issue facing a number of school districts in the North Country and around the state. I have introduced legislation that will give a significant and much-needed financial boost to struggling schools that have an outsized proportion of tax-exempt properties located within their district boundaries," Assemblywoman Russell said.

"Because of the role property taxes play in funding school budgets, communities that have a high number of tax-exempt properties often end up asking a small percentage of the population to shoulder a large financial burden. This legislation is necessary to more equitably provide and fund a basic education for New York’s children," she added.

The bill would call for additional state aid payments on a sliding scale basis for school districts with 40 percent or more of tax-exempt property.

The maximum payment would range from $500,000 for a district containing 40 to 44 percent of tax exempt property to $2.5 million for districts with 65 percent or more tax exempt property. The reimbursement would be based, in part, on school size and the district's economic status, with the poorest districts in the state eligible for the highest payments.

Ogdensburg School Superintendent Tim M. Vernsey said he feels the state should take the amount of tax-exempt property in a district into consideration in its state aid allocations.

"The city of Ogdensburg and the Ogdensburg City School District have some of the highest tax exempt property percentages in New York State. At last glance it is upwards of 70 percent or over $400 million," Mr. Vernsey said.

"Much of the tax-exempt property is state owned and ends up forcing a much larger burden on the local taxpayers and businesses. The Ogdensburg City School District has the highest tax rate per thousand ($26.49 per $1,000 is projected for the 2016-17 budget) of any district in the region. The reason for this is that roughly only 30 percent of the property in the district is taxed, again forcing a major burden on the local taxpayers who are left to make up the difference," he noted.

"I believe this is a bill that makes sense as school districts who are in this situation have no choice but to have significantly higher tax rates than schools that do not have significant tax- exempt properties within their borders," according to Mr. Vernsey.

Massena Central School Superintendent Patrick H. Brady, who previously served as the school superintendent at Potsdam Central, said the amount of tax-exempt properties in both communities is a concern.

"We appreciate the strong consideration given by Assemblywoman Russell to school districts with a high amount of tax-exempt property," he said.

"Having been the superintendent in two such communities, I know the challenges of developing a budget balancing the needs of our students with the fiscal capacity of local taxpayers." Mr. Brady noted.

"Schools are limited in their revenue raising ability as funding is largely derived from state aid and the local property owners. When there is a high rate of exemption in the local tax base, the burden is inequitably born by those who do not qualify for such exclusions," he pointed out

The property value for the Massena Central School District on the 2015-16 tax roll was $1.9 billion, but $1.2 billion - 61.6 percent - is tax exempt.

"If the full value of property were taxable, it would add $22 million to the district while at the same time more equitably distributing the responsibility. It would also significantly lower the tax rate for all," Mr. Brady said.

"The same would be true for school districts such as Potsdam that have similar tax exemption issues. Real property tax laws are difficult to change in regards to institutions of higher learning, public authorities, places of worship and other exempt entities since they have enjoyed historic deference," he said.

But he said the legislation introduced by Assemblywoman Russell tackles the problem from a different angle by providing additional financial support to schools that have experienced these inequities.

"It will help to provide a fairer playing field for schools who do not have the same revenue raising capacities as those whose tax levy is more evenly distributed. I applaud and support this effort," Mr. Brady said.