Each year, Assemblywoman Mary Beth Walsh (R–C, Ballston) invites fifth grade students from across the 112th Assembly District to take part in her “There Ought to Be a Law” competition, a civics-focused challenge that asks students to come up with a creative idea for a new state law. The contest teaches young people how a bill becomes a law and encourages them to think critically about their government, the legislative process, and what it means to be an engaged citizen.

This year, out of around 200 submissions from 17 classes, Michael Caisse, a fifth grader at Charlton Heights Elementary in the Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake Central School District, was named the winner.

“Michael’s winning essay identified a real issue he sees with GPS apps,” said Assemblywoman Walsh. “He proposed a law that would require these apps to include a feature showing the nearest hospital. His idea struck the perfect balance of humor and seriousness, all while presenting a compelling case for why it should become law.”

On Friday morning, Walsh visited Charlton Heights to present Michael with a $100 Amazon gift card and a New York State Assembly Certificate. He was joined by Superintendent Patrick McGrath, his teachers Mrs. Kalinkewicz and Mr. Haluska, other faculty, his parents, and classmates, to celebrate the achievement.

“Interacting with students is one of the best parts of my job,” Walsh added. “It was a pleasure to host this competition again this year, and I’m especially proud of Michael’s thoughtful submission. I’m seriously considering pursuing this idea as legislation that will better the lives of New Yorkers.”