Seward Named to Key Leadership Post

ONEONTA, 02/23/11 – State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I – Oneonta) has been named assistant majority leader on conference operations, a post that puts him in the top leadership of the state senate.

“The new position allows me to work closely with senate leadership in establishing priorities and directing important legislation to the senate floor,” said Senator Seward.  “New York is extremely diverse, and it is vital that upstate has a voice at the table to fight for our unique concerns - I am proud to be that voice.”

Senator Seward has also been named to three key budget review subcommittees with the purpose of analyzing the governor’s budget proposal and recommending constructive revisions.

“The senate subcommittees serve as an important opening to the budget process which will then transition to conference committees with the state assembly, and finally, to enactment of an on-time state budget,” added Seward.

Seward’s conference committee assignments are:  
• Education;
• General Government/Local Assistance;
• Higher Education & Arts.

“While the governor’s budget proposal has provided the legislature with a reasonable starting point, alternative savings and revenue measures must still be considered to formulate a final spending plan that meets the needs of our upstate families and businesses and sets the tone for positive economic growth throughout the state,” concluded Seward.

Seward was previously named chairman of the senate insurance committee and also serves on the senate standing committees on agriculture, education, finance, health, higher education, mental health and rules.

 
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