Robach: Upstate Caucus Meeting a Positive Step for Rochester's Future

Legislators on both sides of the aisle discuss urgent issues and strategize solutions

The first meeting of the State Senate Legislative Caucus was held today in Albany where bipartisan discussions focused on the many issues facing Upstate New York.

The meeting was attended by Democrat and Republican Senators who agreed to work together to push an Upstate agenda.  Discussions today focused on the formation of the caucus and pressing issues like SUNY, education funding, Empire Zones and hospitals.

Robach stated “Upstate New York needs dramatic and innovative solutions to the challenges that have contributed to our lagging economy and the impact it has had on our citizens.  I was very pleased with the ideas that emerged from this meeting and the spirit of bipartisanship.  I am confident that, if successful, this caucus will give Upstate New York a unified voice during budget negotiations and beyond.”

Senator Robach also addressed the daycare crisis facing Monroe County and unfunded mandates that are paralyzing our local governments.

This caucus was formed by Senator Robach in an effort to give Upstate a strong voice in the State Legislature.  The caucus was attended by Senators Volker, Valesky, Thompson, Winner, Young, Seward, Larkin, Maziarz, Nozzolio, Little, Saland as well as staff from the offices of Senator Aubertine, Farley, Alesi, Griffo, Bonacic and McDonald.

“As Upstate legislators, we share direct, firsthand knowledge of the challenges facing Upstate.  A New York City coalition and others have been formed over the years that have been successful in their advocacy efforts and I believe the time for us to follow suit is long overdue” said Senator Robach.

The next meeting will be held in two weeks.  Senators will be bring their priority issues affecting their Districts and continue to strategize on ways to get lasting results for Upstate New York.