Statement From New York State Senate Co-Leader Dean Skelos

Calling on the Assembly to Pass Full Senate Anti-Heroin Package

New York State is in the midst of an alarming heroin epidemic that demands a swift and overwhelming legislative response. Led by Senator Phil Boyle, our bipartisan Joint Task Force on Heroin and Opioid Addiction held 18 hearings throughout the state, consulted with experts, listened to the parents of innocent victims and advanced a series of thoughtful recommendations. We passed those recommendations earlier this week with broad bipartisan support.

Now, it's critically important that the Assembly join us in approving this entire package of anti-heroin bills before the session concludes. The Assembly must stop ignoring reality and give law enforcement the tools they need to punish drug dealers and keep heroin off of our streets. More than ever, we need a comprehensive approach that prevents drug abuse and overdoses, increases treatment options and enhances the tools provided to law enforcement.

Before another New York family has to deal with the incomprehensible sadness and grief of a child taken from them too soon, let's commit to doing everything we can do to resolve this crisis. When lives are at stake, half-measures like those being contemplated by the Assembly simply aren't good enough.

The complete list of bills passed by the State Senate can be found here: http://www.nysenate.gov/press-release/senate-passes-bills-recommended-heroin-task-force-0