We’ve seen many cases in recent months concerning heroin use and overdoses. It has become a public health epidemic. The stories are sad and often tragic. Overdose rates have increased substantially. Deaths from heroin overdoses in New York more than doubled from 215 in 2008 to 478 in 2012.
As the school year winds down, students are itching to get out of the classroom and dreaming of days spent having fun in the sun. However, while the season might mean time off from school, it shouldn’t mean a break from the books.
The Governor, legislators and advocacy groups are all jockeying in attempt to get their favored legislation passed and signed into law before the legislative session concludes. The Assembly majority, which is dominated by downstate Democrats, is pushing a number of agenda items including medical marijuana, publicly financed campaigns , and an expansion of abortion rights to name a few.
Across New York State and our nation, heroin and opioid abuse is on the rise, leading to more drug overdoses and deaths in recent years than ever before. Heroin abuse and the use of opioids are very serious problems. But, the good news is we’re taking steps to fight back.
There has been some good news lately involving dairy and the local economy. New York was recently named the top yogurt producer in the nation. This is the second year our state has earned this distinction, in large part due to the Greek yogurt producers who call New York home.
Following a long winter, motorcyclists across the Central and Northern New York region are eager to hit the road. As summer approaches, it’s extra important for those on both two wheels and four to safely share the road. As the calendar page turns from May, which is also Motorcycle Safety Month, to June, I’m happy to report that a bill I sponsored to help make our roads safer has passed the State Senate.
There are a number of measures I sponsor that would expand women’s rights and protections, as well as serve to better protect children. I wanted to highlight a few this week that would help the punishment fit the crime and also, make it easier for women and children to access services when in need.
Living so close to Fort Drum, we see firsthand the tremendous sacrifices our soldiers make in the name of defending both our country and our freedom. While we should show our appreciation to veterans and current service members year-round, May – which is Military Appreciation Month – presents special opportunities to recognize our troops.
Memorial Day is a time for family picnics and parades. More importantly however, it’s also a time we honor our veterans and pay homage to those who gave the ultimate sacrifice in serving our country. As a state, we can always do more for those who have fought for our freedoms. To that end, I sponsor and support a number of bills that will improve the lives of our veterans.
More vitamins and minerals, protection against diseases such as heart disease and cancer, a lower number on the scale and freshness that is second to none, these are just some of the benefits of eating fruits, vegetables and other foods found at your local farmers’ market.
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