State Senator James Seward took the oath of office Sunday for his 16th senate term at the Foothills Performing Arts Center in Oneonta.
Following the swearing-in ceremony, Senator Seward addressed supporters and well-wishers, recounting recent legislative victories, and vowing to continue to tackle the challenges facing the 51st Senate District and New York State:
"New York State has so much going for it and I am reenergized as I begin my 16th term in the state senate," he said.
"This past year featured a number of legislative victories - We have had a number of significant wins over the last few years - lower taxes for our middle class families, record state aid for our schools, support for our upstate roads and bridges, and additional laws to address the crushing heroin and opioid epidemic.
"I have also partnered with local leaders to secure state funding for communities throughout my senate district. New York is investing here because we have innovative thinkers who are generating impressive ideas and prospects for real growth."
"Now as we are set to embark on a new legislative session I stand ready to address the many challenges we face. My priorities will included broad based economic development incentives that will attract new businesses and strengthen those already loyal to New York, school aid to ensure our students have the tools they need to succeed, the end to costly mandates and unneeded regulations that stifle local businesses and governments, helping young people and families afford the cost of college, and sustained property tax relief for our homeowners."
"As I embark on my 16th term, I know that I do so with strong partnerships in tow - local officials, business owners, community leaders, and residents who I work with daily. They are the people who I have teamed with to accomplish so much, and who I will continue to partner with to advance new initiatives in 2017 and beyond."
Senator Seward was first elected to the state senate in 1986; he will be serving his 16th term.