Politics

Gov. Andrew Cuomo has outlined more details for establishing a financial restructuring board as a resource for distressed local governments, particularly in upstate New York.

Invasive species can cause environmental and economic damage, and present a threat to the shipping, fishing and recreation industries across upstate New York, according to Sen. Chuck Schumer.

Schumer, a Democrat, is proposing a rapid response grant program to help tackle the issue. The proposed legislation would allow states and local authorities to request federal grants for early detection and rapid response when the presence, or threat, of a new aquatic invasive species is identified.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s is proposing a border crossing fee for those traveling into the country from Canada. So far the idea is drawing opposition from representatives across western New York.

The DHS has made provision in their 2014 budget proposal for a study on collecting fees from people entering the U.S. via land border crossings, to defray security costs.

Democratic Rep. Brian Higgins says if implemented, the plan would have a significant impact on the Buffalo-Niagara economy.