North Country Assemblyman Marc Butler, R-Newport, says he will focus on job growth and quality education for the North Country in the coming year

Butler, whose 118th Assembly District includes St. Lawrence County towns from Norfolk and Madrid south to Colton, Clifton and Fine, released a statement on the opening of the 2016 Legislative Session.

“With the opening of the new legislative year I want to emphasize that upstate New York needs significant attention and support. It is my priority to make sure the legislature is focused on job growth, ensuring a quality education for our children, supporting veterans, and keeping our communities thriving and affordable places to live.

Butler says he is looking forward to schools being fully reimbursed for the funds taken as part of the Gap Elimination Adjustment (GEA) in 2011.

“Schools have been impacted enough by that irresponsible scheme, and it’s time to end it,” he said.

“As always, I have my sights set on protecting the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding New Yorkers and will oppose any efforts by the governor or the legislature to curtail them in a kneejerk reaction to a larger societal problem.

Butler says he is anxious to hear what the governor’s proposals will be during his state of the state address next week and where we can come together and work to ensure that New Yorkers are served well.

“I am ready to work to make 2016 a great year for New Yorkers,” Butler said.