Sen. Helming Appointed to Leadership of Commerce, Economic Development, & Small Business Committee, Commission on Rural Resources

GENEVA – Senator Pam Helming today announced that she has been appointed the ranking member of the Commerce, Economic Development, & Small Business Committee. Additionally, she will continue to serve on the Commission on Rural Resources as a ranking member.

“These two committee leadership assignments reflect the priorities I have fought for on behalf of the hardworking taxpayers of the Wayne-Finger Lakes region. One of the top concerns I hear about from constituents is the need to improve Upstate New York’s business climate to create jobs in our communities. We need to focus on reducing the bureaucratic red tape that job creating businesses face so that we can grow our economy and create new opportunities for local workers. As the ranking member on this committee, I will continue to be a strong advocate for workforce development initiatives that equip local workers and students with new skills and match them with employers looking to hire. Working together, we can improve our economy and strengthen our communities,” said Senator Pam Helming.

The Commerce, Economic Development, & Small Business Committee is responsible for reviewing legislation related to improving New York’s business climate and supporting job creation. The committee votes on legislation pertaining to all aspects of business regulations and economic development programs.

“Throughout my time on the Commission on Rural Resources, I have worked on behalf of our farmers and rural communities. While there is much more work to be done, we have improved access to infrastructure (including broadband), transportation and healthcare. New York’s rural communities deserve to have the same access to critical infrastructure and services as more urban areas. As the ranking member of the Commission, I will continue to be a strong voice for Upstate New York,” said Senator Helming.

Senator Helming noted that more than 80 percent of New York State is made up of rural communities with around 3.3 million residents in 44 rural counties, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. She has been honored by the NYS Farm Bureau and inducted into the Circle of Friends Her leadership has also been recognized by FarmNet and she was recently honored as Farm Family Advocate of the Year.

The Rural Resources Commission serves as a clearinghouse for policies aimed at preserving and boosting New York’s agricultural sector, protecting the health and well being of rural residents, developing affordable housing and safeguarding rural New York’s infrastructure. It continues to work toward addressing rural issues including agriculture, energy needs and opportunities, healthcare, economic development, environmental concerns, education and mandate-and-tax relief.