Biography

Paul D. Tonko, born on June 18, 1949, in Amsterdam, New York, is a Democratic member of the U.S. House of Representatives, serving New York's 20th Congressional District since 2009. The district encompasses the Capital Region, including the cities of Albany, Schenectady, Troy, and Saratoga Springs. Throughout his career, Tonko has been a staunch advocate for clean energy, environmental protection, and economic development.

Education and Political Experience

• Education: Bachelor of Science in Mechanical and Industrial Engineering from Clarkson University.

• Political Experience:

  • Served on the Montgomery County Board of Supervisors from 1976 to 1983, acting as chairman from 1981 to 1983.
  • Elected to the New York State Assembly in 1983, representing the 105th district until 2007.
  • Appointed President and CEO of the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority from 2007 to 2008.
  • Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2008, representing New York's 21st district and subsequently the 20th district .

Notable Achievements and Positions

• Committee Assignments:

  • Ranking Member of the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Environment, Manufacturing, & Critical Materials.
  • Member of the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Energy, Climate, and Grid Security, and the Subcommittee on Oversight & Investigations.
  • Member of the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology.

• Legislative Achievements:

  • Authored and led successful efforts to pass legislation addressing addiction and mental health, climate change, energy, and environmental issues.
  • Championed the Assistance, Quality, and Affordability Act, reauthorizing the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund.
  • Advocated for the Mainstreaming Addiction Treatment Act to expand access to opioid addiction treatment.

• Caucus Memberships:

  • Co-chair of the Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition .
  • Co-chair of the Addiction, Treatment, and Recovery Caucus.

• Awards:

  • Honored as the "2020 Humane Horseman of the Year" by the Humane Society of the United States.

Tonko's extensive experience in energy policy and commitment to environmental issues have made him a prominent voice in Congress for sustainable development and public health initiatives.