John T. McDonald III - NYS Assemblymember
johnmcdonald108.bsky.social
John T. McDonald III - NYS Assemblymember
@johnmcdonald108.bsky.social
NYS Assemblymember for the 108th District; Former Mayor of the City of Cohoes; Pharmacist - Marra’s Pharmacy.
Sen Schumer and Gillibrand and Congressman Tonko who started this a few years ago with the Bipartisan Infrastructure Act. As we approach the upcoming 2026-27 budget I will be fighting for increased funding to continue this effort.
December 18, 2025 at 8:23 PM
I am hopeful that the city will move with breakneck speed to realize the benefit of the grant and more importantly to benefit the residents. I am proud to have supported this effort from day one and am mindful not only of the Governor's support but also our federal government partners -
December 18, 2025 at 8:23 PM
This past week the Environmental Facilities Corp (EFC) approved converting the loan to a LIFT grant initiated by Gov Hochul and supported by the Legislature. Once completed, the city will have received as a full grant the $16.7 million with no cost to the city and no cost to the residents.
December 18, 2025 at 8:23 PM
Unity House of Troy, Inc. – $500,000
• Retaining $220,000
• Supporting 518 Positive Reinforcement, Oakwood Community Center, and The Connect Center for Youth with $280,000
Safer Streets: Governor Hochul Announces $20 Million to Support Programs and Services for Young People in 10 Communities Statewide
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced $20 million to support programs and services that strengthen violence prevention, youth development, mental health supports, and economic opportunity for young…
www.governor.ny.gov
December 17, 2025 at 8:17 PM
Capital District YMCA – $500,000
• Retaining $308,001
• Supporting Live Limitless Refuge Center and The Ark, Inc. with $191,999

Commission on Economic Opportunity (CEO) – $500,000
• Retaining $219,764
• Supporting Fifth Avenue Exodus Initiative, Shades of Cocoa, Troy Drug Free Community,
Safer Streets: Governor Hochul Announces $20 Million to Support Programs and Services for Young People in 10 Communities Statewide
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced $20 million to support programs and services that strengthen violence prevention, youth development, mental health supports, and economic opportunity for young…
www.governor.ny.gov
December 17, 2025 at 8:17 PM
These are organizations I have supported in the past and will continue to stand with as they do critical, on-the-groundwork for our young people and families:

Boys & Girls Club of the Capital Area – $500,000
• Retaining $319,039
• Supporting North Central Community Solidarity Group and Team HERO
Safer Streets: Governor Hochul Announces $20 Million to Support Programs and Services for Young People in 10 Communities Statewide
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced $20 million to support programs and services that strengthen violence prevention, youth development, mental health supports, and economic opportunity for young…
www.governor.ny.gov
December 17, 2025 at 8:17 PM
and I appreciate the support from the District Attorneys Association, Public Defenders, and mental health organizations."

Read the full press release here: www.nysenate.gov/newsroom/pre...
Hinchey, McDonald Bill to Expand Access to Mental Health Courts Signed into Law
ALBANY, NY – Senator Michelle Hinchey and Assemblymember John T. McDonald today announced that their bill to expand access to mental health courts in New York (S.8312/A.7563) has been signed into law.
www.nysenate.gov
December 11, 2025 at 5:45 PM
"The new law will expand access to mental health courts (MHCs) and, in turn, increase access to treatment options for those living with mental illness. Studies have found that graduates of mental health court programs tend to show reduced recidivism. This measure will improve public safety,
Hinchey, McDonald Bill to Expand Access to Mental Health Courts Signed into Law
ALBANY, NY – Senator Michelle Hinchey and Assemblymember John T. McDonald today announced that their bill to expand access to mental health courts in New York (S.8312/A.7563) has been signed into law.
www.nysenate.gov
December 11, 2025 at 5:45 PM
Thank you to Governor Hochul, NY CREATES, and all of our partners for their continued commitment, and a special shoutout to Ironworkers Local 12 for their dedicated work on an exceptionally cold fall day.
December 10, 2025 at 6:53 PM
As Cohoes looks to improve and expand housing options for older adults, this designation will make new investment more feasible. State and National Register designation can unlock access to historic tax credits and other funding streams that make redevelopment financially achievable.
December 8, 2025 at 4:39 PM
and this survey highlights the importance of working together to build on that momentum. I’m grateful to Gov Hochul for her commitment to creating learning environments where students can succeed and our teachers are respected. I believe this effort will have a lasting impact
December 5, 2025 at 7:12 PM
92% reported a smooth transition to phone-free learning
- 83% reported more positive classrooms and better student engagement.
- 75% said the policy has improved their ability to teach effectively.

Distraction free classrooms are already making a difference in schools across our region,
December 5, 2025 at 7:12 PM
As someone who has worked closely with families affected by substance use disorders, I have seen how important early engagement can be. By fixing this regulatory gap, we’re ensuring that clinicians can offer stabilizing medications when a patient needs them.
December 4, 2025 at 4:12 PM
This memorial will stand as a solemn tribute to the millions of lives lost and to the pain and suffering endured by families during one of humanity’s darkest chapters.
December 3, 2025 at 4:18 PM