Utica, NY – New York State Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon today convened a Financial Institutions Forum in the 119th Assembly District, bringing together local banking leaders, credit unions, and financial service providers to address the challenges and opportunities facing the Mohawk Valley’s financial sector.

The forum, held at Conference Room A & B at the Utica State Office Building, welcomed special guest Assemblyman Clyde Vanel, Chair of the Assembly Committee on Banks, who joined Buttenschon in leading discussions on strengthening financial institutions, improving access to banking services, and supporting small businesses and working families in the region.

“This forum was about listening to the voices of our local financial institutions and working collaboratively to find real solutions,” said Assemblywoman Buttenschon. “Our banks and credit unions are not only the backbone of our local economy; they are trusted partners for families, farmers, and small businesses. I’m deeply grateful to Chairman Vanel for joining us today and for his dedication to ensuring that state policies reflect the needs of communities like ours.”

Throughout the morning, representatives from area banks and credit unions held important discussions on issues such as fraud protection, financial literacy, and the concerns surrounding public banking. Local banks and credit unions also shared insights on how they continue to support small businesses, families, and farmers across the Mohawk Valley.

Assemblyman Vanel emphasized the importance of forums like this in shaping statewide policies: “This forum showed the importance of collaboration between financial institutions, community leaders, and lawmakers. We must make sure that financial institutions, both on the local, state, and national level have the tools to better serve families and businesses both large and small. We must also make sure that New Yorkers are protected and informed when it comes to financial products and services. I am grateful to Assemblywoman Buttenschon for convening such a large and engaged group of financial services stakeholders and I thank them for the thoughtful discussions we were able to have.”

The forum provided a platform for open dialogue between local bank leaders, credit unions, financial service providers and lawmakers, fostering collaboration and highlighting innovative solutions tailored to the Mohawk Valley’s unique needs.

Assemblywoman Buttenschon, who chairs the Assembly Small Business Committee, reaffirmed her commitment to advocating for policies that support financial institutions while protecting consumers.

“Strong financial institutions mean stronger communities. I will continue working closely with my colleagues in Albany, including Chairman Vanel, to ensure our local banks have the tools they need to grow, innovate, and serve the people of the Mohawk Valley,” she said.

This forum is part of Buttenschon’s ongoing effort to bring state leaders and community representatives together to find practical solutions that uplift working families, support local institutions, and strengthen the future of Central New York.