by Bea Peterson
As NYS Assemblyman to the recently restructured 107th District Steve McLaughlin has been visiting the area to meet his new constituents. On Thursday, March 7, he and his assistant Nick Wilock were at the Hoosick Falls Armory from 3 to 6 pm. About a dozen people from Grafton, Petersburgh, Hoosick and Hoosick Falls came to talk with him. The Assemblyman listened attentively to their issues and responded with his views.
[private]Of major concern to several residents was the across the board six percent medicaid cut affecting persons with disabilities. Though it would save the State $120 million, that same amount would be cut from money the State receives from the Federal government. Therefore, it would essentially be a $240 million dollar cut in funding for those with disabilities.
McLaughlin told them he fully supports the restoration of that six percent funding on the State level. He added that there is never enough money to go around. HEAP was brought up and McLaughlin responded that that is another battle that is losing. He said the current focus is on soldiers, veterans and farmers. He also noted that some people take advantage of the system.
No matter what the issue, he said, people making noise helps. When asked the best way to reach him; paper or email, he said to remember he has a small staff, but they do try to respond. He said, to date, he has received over 1,000 form letters on gun control. He pointed out that individual letters and emails, rather than duplicates tend to get more notice.
Another hot button issue was the new SAFE Act gun control law. Those who spoke to McLaughlin were opposed to it. McLaughlin said he is opposed to it as well. He would like to see the whole bill repealed and the process started all over again. He doesn’t believe this will happen, however. He does believe that there will be revisions. He also believes the Governor is rocked by the reaction.
Wilock wanted everyone to know that McLaughlin has recently opened an office in Troy. The Assemblyman can be contacted at 258 Hoosick Street, Suite 109, Troy, NY, 12180. The telephone number is 518-272-6149 and the fax number is 518-272-6313.
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