Social Security is the very foundation of retirement security for millions of Americans.

The growth of Stewart Airport creates new jobs for area residents, brings new business and new travelers to the region, and brings new convenient travel options to those of us living in the Hudson Valley.

But there is a need to explore ways we can preserve the promise of Social Security for future generations.

Our government makes the simple promise of a secure retirement to every American who works for many years and contributes to our retirement benefit system.

Yet our small business owners across the country are unfairly losing potential interest income on a daily basis until the Business Checking Freedom Act becomes law.

Last year, I co-sponsored the Highlands Conservation Act and in a bipartisan effort we passed the bill through Congress.

As a former small business owner, I recognize both the important role small businesses play in our economy and the broad universe of challenges that small business owners face in trying to make ends meet.