Assemblyman Brian Maher (R,C-Walden) today voiced his strong support for the inclusion of $250,000 in funding for the Spina Bifida Association of New York State (SBANYS) in this year’s state budget. During a joint press conference, Sen. Patricia Fahy (D-Albany) was joined by Assembly Minority Leader Ed Ra (R-Franklin Square), Assemblyman Matt Slater (R,C-Yorktown), Col. Christina Fanitzi and New Yorkers living with spina bifida to rally in support of securing this critical funding. The funding would help SBANYS continue providing resources, advocacy and support for individuals and families affected by spina bifida across New York state.

“Spina bifida impacts every single Assembly and Senate district in New York state, but not every district has the same access to services. That must change,” said Meghan Hurlburt, chief of staff to Assemblyman Maher. “It was Col. Fanitzi coming to Assemblyman Maher that led to our introduction to the Spina Bifida Association of New York State. From there, we began identifying its needs and, over the past year, building the bipartisan coalition that brings us here today. This issue has become deeply personal to many of us as we’ve realized just how many families and individuals in our own communities are impacted.”

According to the CDC, spina bifida affects 1 in every 2,750 to 2,900 births, and in New York State, 4,000 families are impacted. Currently, SBANYS is limited to serving 700 families in New York State due to budget constraints, which is only 18% of the families affected.

“We are here today because of Col. Fanitzi and the countless parents and family members like her who are on the front lines every day advocating for one of our most vulnerable populations,” Hurlburt continued. “Col. Fanitzi and everyone here today embody one of Assemblyman Maher’s favorite quotes by Margaret Mead: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”