» Upstate New York Congressional Caucus Formed – Supports High Speed Rail…

Rep. Slaughter Forms Congressional Caucus to Focus on Upstate New York - All New York Members Representing Districts in Upstate New York Have Joined

On January 8, 2009, Congresswoman Louise M. Slaughter (D-NY-28) announced the formation of a new bipartisan ‘Upstate New York Congressional Caucus’

As stated in the press release announcing the formation “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.

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.”

In the release Slaughter stated “I am proud that all of my colleagues who represent Upstate New York are joining me in forming the Upstate New York Caucus. 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 111th 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.”

The Upstate Congressional caucus has identified the development of a high-speed rail system across New York as a top priority when it comes to federal funding. The caucus began pushing for high-speed rail development funds during a meeting on Thursday, January 8, 2009 with fellow Congressman James Oberstar, D-Minnesota, who chairs the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.

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