(Albany, NY – March 6, 2013) State legislators representing the Mohawk Valley met with representatives of Remington Arms to discuss the heritage company’s continued future in Ilion. In light of the state’s adoption of strict new guns laws, the meeting was an opportunity for state elected officials to express their support for Remington and its employees and to discuss prospects for future growth in Herkimer County.
Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I – Oneonta) said, “Remington Arms and the 1,300 outstanding and loyal workers who make up the 200 year old company’s workforce symbolize the Mohawk Valley. The region’s future success is closely tied to Remington’s ability to thrive. New York State has partnered with Remington in the past, and I pledged to do everything in my power to ensure that partnership is maintained.”
Senator Hugh T. Farley (R/C/I – Schenectady) said, “Remington is such an important part of the economy and history of the area. I applaud all the skilled and dedicated workers who have made this company a success. It is crucial that we work to support this important employer and retain these jobs which are essential to the region.”
Senator Joseph A. Griffo (R/C/I – Rome) said, “There are serious inquiries from economic development and elected officials from outside of New York who are looking to lure this historic company from our area. My colleagues and I are focused on keeping this foundational employer, which continues to expand, here in our community. Manufacturing in this state is not an easy enterprise; we need continued attention in keeping a business and regulatory environment that allows them to survive and thrive in New York.”
Assemblyman Marc Butler (R/C/I – Newport) said, “Our meeting with Remington officials was very positive and we were able to lay the groundwork for further discussions on how we can work to ensure Remington’s presence in the Mohawk Valley far into the future. Remington is the foundation of our local economy and we made it absolutely clear that we will work with them, help them to stay, and hopefully, help them to grow.”
Assemblywoman Claudia Tenney (R/C/I – New Hartford) said, “I am pleased to have had the opportunity to meet with Remington representatives today. It is a distinct honor for me to represent the 101st Assembly District, home of Remington Arms, a world renowned company that manufactures high quality and uniquely American products. I am dedicated to working with Remington officials to preserve and to ultimately grow its workforce in Herkimer County.”
Assemblyman Anthony Brindisi (D – Utica) said, “Remington has been a very important part of the fabric of life in the Mohawk Valley for nearly two centuries. Today I was able to affirm my very strong support for the company in a meeting with my state legislative colleagues from throughout the region. I have heard from many constituents in recent months how important this company is to them, and I will continue to take this message to legislative leaders in Albany.”
Remington Arms was represented at the meeting by Otto Weigl, senior vice president government and legislative affairs, Jonathan Sprole, general counsel, and Paul Merz, Ilion plant manager.
State legislators were encouraged to learn that Remington is making a $20 million dollar investment in upgrades at the Ilion plant. They also vowed to work with local colleges to develop a workforce training program that will help meet the need for new, skilled workers.
All six of the legislators voted against the NY-SAFE Act.
Founded in 1816, Remington Arms is one of the nation’s oldest continuously operating manufacturers and of the largest domestic producers of shotguns and rifles. Employees at the Ilion plant earn salaries that average in excess of $42,000 annually, plus benefits. Its economic impact on the region and New York State is tremendous.