FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 24, 2016CONTACT: (631) 585-0230

HEROIN BILLS DO NOT GO FAR ENOUGH

Assemblyman Al Graf (R,C,I-Holbrook) attends bill signing with Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo and other New York State Assembly Members

On June 22, 2016, Assemblyman Al Graf (R,C,I-Holbrook) attended an event where Gov. Cuomo signed recently-passed legislation dealing with the heroin epidemic.

“Today I attended the governor’s bill signing of the heroin package passed this year by the Legislature. Though it is a good start, it represents a mere baby step, where we require a record-setting leap,” Graf said.

Graf said that he disagrees with the governor’s stance pertaining to court-ordered rehab. He said families need tools to enable them to save their loved ones’ lives. “Parents are often forced to stand on the sidelines helpless as their children die before their eyes due to addiction. We have to give these families hope, and an opportunity to petition the court to get their family members the help they need.”

“The legislation signed by the governor is a step forward, and an important one, but it is tantamount to putting a band-aid on a gaping wound. There is a lot of work to be done.

“Over the last year I have been working to identify the problems associated with the heroin epidemic and I co-authored a report that offers common-sense solutions to ensure we get this crisis under control.

“Together, we can advocate for the recommendations in the report and really make a difference in ending this crisis, which is killing people, destroying families, and devastating communities throughout the state,” Graf concluded.

Residents may contact Graf’s district office at (631) 585-0230 if they would like a copy of the Heroin Report.

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