North Country Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, helped pass legislation aimed at enhancing and protecting the rights of New Yorkers with disabilities.

“The obstacles faced by people with disabilities are complex and it is important that we do everything we can to level the playing field,” Russell said. “This legislative package seeks to address these unique challenges people with disabilities face every day.”

Her 116th “River” District covers Massena, Ogdensburg, Louisville, Waddington, Lisbon, Oswegatchie, Morristown and Hammond along the St. Lawrence River, and also the St. Lawrence County towns of Canton, Potsdam, Rossie, Macomb and DePeyster, plus northern Jefferson County, not including Watertown.

Veterans with disabilities would see improved services with a piece of legislation establishing the New York State Interagency Coordinating Council for Serviced-Disabled Veterans (A.4789-A). This council would identify the needs of service-disabled veterans and help them access appropriate state resources.

“Service-disabled veterans who bravely served our country should be able to access the programs aimed at improving their lives without additional headaches in identifying what they qualify for and this council seeks to provide solutions,” Russell said.

“As the chair of the Assembly Subcommittee on Women Veterans and a member of the Veterans’ Affairs Committee, I will continue to fight to make sure our veterans have access to the services and support they deserve,” she said.

The Assembly also passed measures to assist all New Yorkers with disabilities in times of emergency. Under legislation sponsored by Assemblywoman Russell, owners of high-rise buildings would be required to establish emergency evacuation plans for disabled occupants and visitors, with a fine to be imposed for those who do not comply (A.2200).

Another bill requires counties that have local emergency plans to maintain a confidential, voluntary registry of residents with disabilities who may require assistance during a disaster.

“People with disabilities are most vulnerable in emergency situations,” Russell said. “Life-threatening situations can be prevented when proper safeguards are in place, and these measures seek to increase the amount of information emergency personnel have in order to be better equipped to handle these difficult situations and prevent tragedy from occurring."

In addition to these bills, the Assembly’s package also included measures aimed at fighting discrimination, providing sign-language interpreters at public hearings, enhancing voting rights and improving housing and community living options, Russell said.