STATEMENT FROM SENATOR TERRY GIPSON ON HIS TickBITE ACT PASSING COMMITTEE

For Immediate Release: April 23, 2013
Media Contact: Jonathan Heppner | 845.463.0840 | heppner@nysenate.gov

STATEMENT FROM SENATOR TERRY GIPSON ON HIS TickBITE ACT PASSING COMMITTEE

ALBANY, NY -- Senator Terry Gipson issued the following statement after his TickBITE Act (S.3478) passed the Senate Insurance Committee on April 22nd, 2013. The proposed legislation would require health insurers and workers’ compensation to provide coverage for long-term medical care for Lyme disease and other tick-borne pathogens. It also establishes the tick-borne illness, research, and education fund.

"I’m extremely pleased that the Committee has taken the steps needed to protect Hudson Valley and New York State residents from Lyme disease and other tick-related illnesses. This legislation will allow those suffering from these chronic illnesses to receive the treatment they deserve. I applaud Chairman Seward and the Committee for doing what is right."

Assemblyman Kevin Cahill (D-Kingston), sponsor of the Assembly’s partner bill added, “I'm happy to see this legislation building momentum in the Senate and am proud to be its primary sponsor in the Assembly. I will work alongside my friend Senator Gipson to help tackle the unique medical and financial problems presented by chronic tick-borne illness in the Hudson Valley.”

“Lyme disease is a growing public health concern in our region that carries chronic implications. We must see to it that those affected by this disease are cared for while we expand our efforts for research and education. I look forward to working with Assemblyman Cahill on making this bill law to better protect the health of our constituents,” Senator Gipson concluded.

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