Seward Focuses on Tech Jobs

ALBANY, 01/23/17 -- State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I – Oneonta) today announced his committee assignments for the 2017-18 legislative session, including the Senate Select Committee on Technology and Innovation.  The newly created committee will work to strengthen economic development by determining the current and future needs of New York’s technology sector and create jobs by increasing access to technology programs.

“A recent U.S. Census report showed more than 190,000 people left New York State last year.  We must create new opportunities here at home to stop that exodus and reverse that trend,” said Senator Seward.  “New technology and innovation companies are starting to grow in New York, but more can be done to help foster this vital segment of our economy.  This new senate committee will develop strategies to boost our tech sector leading to good paying jobs and careers.”

Research has shown that successful technology businesses can often rise above current conditions of a regional economy, but barriers that stifle the ability of technology businesses to create jobs and achieve a positive economic impact can stymie such success. The bi-partisan committee will provide a new forum to ascertain the current and future needs of the state’s technology business climate to advance and improve the technology sector and its programs so they reach their maximum potential.

In addition, by collaborating with state agencies and non-state sponsors, the committee will work to enhance opportunities to access technology businesses and programs for all New Yorkers, including by many who are marginalized by current programs, such as veterans, disabled individuals, minorities, and women.

Along with the new assignment, Seward will continue to chair the Senate Insurance Committee and serve on the senate standing committees on agriculture, education, finance, health, higher education, and rules.  Senator Seward is also a member of the Senate Select Committee on Libraries and the Senate Task Force on Heroin and Opioid Addiction.

“These committees are the starting point for influential legislation that has a great affect on so many parts of our lives.  Fighting insurance fraud, ensuring quality healthcare options, helping families afford the high cost of college, providing better links between our schools and employers, protecting our family farms, and battling the heroin epidemic are just some of the significant issues I will be focusing on through these assignments,” added Seward.      

Seward will also continue to serve as a member of the senate leadership team as chairman, majority program development committee. 

“As a member of the state senate leadership team I am able to bring an upstate viewpoint to the table and make certain that concerns important to those who live and work in our area of the state are well represented in Albany,” Seward concluded.

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