NYS Assembly members take the oath

ALBANY, N.Y. (WIVB) - Chautauqua County Assemblyman Andy Goodell (R,C) and Erie County Assemblyman Kevin Smardz (R,I) were among the legislative newcomers sworn in today as a member of the New York State Legislature. Goodell represents the 150th Assembly District, while Smardz represents the 146th Assembly District.

Both men were joined by friends and family in the Legislative Office Building in Albany for the ceremony. The ceremony was presided over by Acting New York Supreme Court Justice Craig J. Doran.

“Serving the people of Western New York is a great privilege, and I look forward to focusing all of my energy on meeting their needs and expectations,” said Goodell. “I am fully prepared to work with my colleagues in the state legislature to deliver tax relief, support our agricultural industry and change the way that business is done in Albany.”

“Now, more than ever, New Yorkers are asking for something different from their government,” said Smardz. “They’re sick of the ‘me first’ attitude of Albany politicians and special interests that has been shamefully on display for decades. New York families need jobs, tax relief and the assurance that their government will act in their best interest. It starts here, and I am eager to serve my district in Western New York."

Goodell currently practices law as an attorney and has formerly held the post of Chautauqua County Executive for eight years. Smardz was formally a Councilman to the Hamburg Town Board and is currently a board member of the Hamburg Industrial Development Agency.