Assemblyman Scott Gray (R-Watertown) recently provided an update on several key issues affecting the 116th Assembly District and New York state during an interview with Assembly Radio-TV Producer Ted Flint.

The major topic discussed was a recent Homeland Security investigation in Jefferson County, where a predawn operation led to the detainment of a family amid a criminal probe into alleged pornography-related crimes. While the family was temporarily held in Texas, they have now been returned to their community after being cleared of involvement. Gray emphasized the professionalism of law enforcement throughout the operation and highlighted concerns about human trafficking linked to criminal activities along the northern border.

Gray also spoke about the Assembly Health Committee’s decision to pull a bill that would have banned flavored nicotine pouches like ZYN. The bill faced opposition from the business community, which argued such a ban would push sales into an unregulated black market. The bill was pulled due to significant opposition from both political sides, with many anticipating it would fail in committee.

Lastly, Gray provided an update on the state budget, noting New York’s budget process remains at a standstill with no clear resolution in sight. He further criticized Albany’s current economic direction and expressed concern as the state approaches Tax Day with little progress on the budget.