Rep. Slaughter Forms Congressional Caucus to Focus on Upstate New York

All New York Members Representing Districts in Upstate New York Have Joined

Washington, DC - Congresswoman Louise M. Slaughter (D-NY-28), Chairwoman of the House Rules Committee, has formed a new bipartisan Upstate New York Congressional Caucus. The purpose of the caucus is to collectively advance issues that face upstate New York, such as reviving the local economy and bringing new well-paying jobs to the region. The caucus had its first meeting today with Congressman James Oberstar, Chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, to discuss possible infrastructure projects for the region:

"I am proud that all of my colleagues who represent Upstate New York are joining me in forming the Upstate New York Caucus," said Congresswoman Slaughter. "The region we represent faces a particularly challenging road ahead. The current economic crisis has compounded problems that have been developing in each of our districts for years.  The purpose of this caucus will be to concentrate our abilities and work together, on both sides of the aisle, in the best interest of Upstate New York.

The 111^th Congress will offer important opportunities to make the case for investing in Upstate New York.  This is an essential opportunity, and one that we cannot approach passively or divided. It is critical that we work together to weather this financial storm. Upstate New York cannot afford to be left behind."

BACKGROUND:

In addition to focusing on important federal spending initiatives such as the upcoming Stimulus package and Appropriations bills.  The Upstate New York Caucus will meet regularly with appropriate federal officials, economic development experts, agricultural experts and others to discuss advancing upstate New York's agenda: Reviving the economy and bring well-paying, stable, and quality jobs to upstate New York.  The caucus will coordinate its efforts to target the projects and priorities that will have the greatest impact on the overall regional economy.

Members of the Upstate New York Caucus include:

Rep. Louise Slaughter              NY-28

Rep. John McHugh                  NY-23

Rep. John Hall                         NY-19

Rep. Kirsten Gillibrand           NY-20

Rep. Paul Tonko                     NY-21

Rep. Maurice Hinchey             NY-22

Rep. Michael Arcuri                NY-24

Rep. Daniel Maffei                  NY-25

Rep. Christopher Lee               NY-26

Rep. Brian Higgins                  NY-27

Rep. Eric Massa                      NY-29

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