David J. Valesky

ALBANY, N.Y.— Governor David Paterson signed legislation sponsored by Senator David J. Valesky (D-Oneida) that will extend cardiovascular health benefits for volunteer firefighters an additional five years (S.2769A).

“Everyday volunteer firefighters across New York put their lives on the line to protect our communities,” said Senator David Valesky. “Extending their benefits enables them to continue to protect the places they live, without compensating their health coverage.”

According to the law, firefighters stricken with heart problems while performing their duty are allowed to claim benefits unless substantial evidence is given that their activity as a firefighter did not cause the heart disease.

SYRACUSE, N.Y.— Two pieces of legislation sponsored by State Senator David J. Valesky (D-Oneida) supporting farmland protection and property tax relief have been signed into law by Governor David Paterson.

“These new laws further assist the agriculture industry, especially in Upstate New York, by providing local farmers with additional property tax relief,” said Senator Valesky

SYRACUSE, N.Y.— Governor Paterson has signed legislation sponsored by Senator David J. Valesky (D-Oneida) that supports growth and investment in vineyards and orchards, two major agricultural crops in New York State.

The bill streamlines an existing property tax exemption for new or replanted vineyards or orchards that proved burdensome for farmers (S.5501).

“Wineries and orchards provide substantial economic impact in Central and Upstate New York,” said Senator Valesky. “This legislation is a cost saving measure for farms, and in these difficult economic times, every dollar saved helps.”

ALBANY, N.Y.— Legislation sponsored by David J. Valesky (D-Oneida) allowing crossbows to be used during hunting season passed the New York State Senate.

"Hunting in Upstate New York is a time honored tradition that thousands of New Yorkers enjoy each year,” said Senator David J. Valesky (D-Oneida). “Expanding hunting to include crossbows will enhance the opportunities available for sportsmen and women and will provide increased revenue to the state and our communities from licensing and tourism.”

SYRACUSE, N.Y.— The State Senate passed legislation (S.4281A) sponsored by Senator David J. Valesky (D-Oneida) that will allow municipalities to create land banks in order to fight urban blight and revitalize communities.

“The large number of abandoned and vacant properties has contributed to low property values and poor economic growth in Upstate cities,” said Senator Valesky. “The creation of land banks will foster economic revitalization and improve the quality of life in our cities and neighborhoods.”

ALBANY, N.Y.— The New York State Senate passed legislation sponsored by Senator David J. Valesky (D-Oneida) that will extend cardiovascular health benefits for volunteer firefighter an additional five years.

“Our volunteer firefighters provide an invaluable service to New York State and our individual communities,” said Senator Valesky. “We owe it to them to ensure they have adequate health coverage to continue to serve their communities.”

Syracuse, N.Y.— Legislation sponsored by Senator David J. Valesky (D-Oneida) that will create a “Gold Alert” adult alert system for vulnerable and elderly New Yorkers passed the State Senate today.

“Too many lives have been lost as a result of adults with cognitive impairment wandering from home,” Senator Valesky said. “The Gold Alert puts their safety, and the peace of mind of their families, at the forefront.”

ALBANY, N.Y.—  Legislation sponsored by State Senator David J. Valesky (D-Oneida) that will create stricter punishments for sex offenders passed the New York State Senate.

I have worked with Mayor Robert Duffy and know first hand that he will be an excellent Lieutenant Governor.  As the mayor of an Upstate city, he brings knowledge of the challenges we face in Upstate New York and experience addressing those challenges.  Bob Duffy is a great addition to the ticket and I applaud Attorney General Andrew Cuomo on his selection.