AMHERST, N.Y. – Samuel Roberts, commissioner of the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, gave an overview of Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s 2016 State of the State Address at a special presentation held Feb. 5 at Daemen College as part of a series of regional discussions taking place around New York State.          

“We are delighted that Governor Cuomo continues to demonstrate his confidence in Daemen College by again choosing us to host the regional presentation of his State of the State priorities,” said Daemen President Gary A. Olson. “Daemen is committed to serving as a forum for distinguished leaders to present ideas and information that serve the common good.”     
         
State Assemblyman Ray Walter, who represents Daemen and the entire 146th Assembly District, was present and added his welcome to Roberts.       

In the presentation, Roberts addressed investments in infrastructure and economic development, raising the minimum wage, funding and offering a world-class education, and paid family medical leave, among other priorities included in Cuomo’s “Built to Lead” agenda.       

“We have been focused on Upstate New York and building the economy, and we will continue that momentum of thoughtful, planned progress to further develop economic strength,” said Roberts. “The governor has also proposed a $300 million tax cut for small businesses to help stimulate the economy in our state, and to raise the minimum wage to $15 an hour to enable workers to earn a decent income.”

Roberts also pointed out the importance of clean energy and the effectiveness of the Environmental Protection Fund, which has a proposed $300 million investment, the highest level in history.

In addition, he talked about expanding the Rochester Anti-Poverty Initiative to 10 cities in Upstate New York with the highest poverty rate, as well as comprehensive programs for cancer screenings.