Albany, N.Y., January 28—State Senator Tom O'Mara (R,C--Big Flats), Ranking Member on the Senate Finance Committee, is joining legislative colleagues in Albany for what will be a monthlong series of joint Senate-Assembly hearings on Governor Kathy Hochul’s proposed 2026-2027 New York State budget. 

On Tuesday night, Senator O'Mara continued to highlight a “huge challenge” for grape growers across the Finger Lakes region, as well apple producers regionally and statewide: the Spotted lanternfly, an invasive species that is particularly harmful to grapevines, fruit and hardwood trees, and numerous other plants.

Testifying before the budget panel and in response to questioning from Senator O’Mara, Cornell College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) Associate Dean Julie Suarez updated committee members on research and other efforts underway at CALS to combat the Spotted lanternfly, calling it a “hugely significant economic impact” for growers.

Watch last night's exchange HERE.

Senator O'Mara has served as the Ranking Member on the Senate Finance Committee since 2021. 

"We welcome the start of this year’s budget hearings, at this critical time, for direct input and critique on a range of policy areas that will decide the short- and long-term future and strength of our local communities and economies.” said Senator O’Mara, who represents the 58th Senate District comprised of Chemung, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, Tioga, and Yates counties, and a part of Allegany County. 

Read more and find the full hearings schedule HERE.