Utica, NY - Taking a significant step in New York's fight against the opioid crisis, Governor Kathy Hochul has signed Bill A.1588-A into law. Sponsored by Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon (D-119), this landmark legislation mandates that all public institutions and state buildings be equipped with life-saving medications like Naloxone (Narcan) that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose.

At a press conference held today at the Utica State Office Building, Assemblywoman Buttenschon was joined by community leaders, health officials, and the family of Erin Giarruso, whose tragic death from an accidental fentanyl overdose in 2019 inspired the push for this vital legislation.

At the heart of this legislative victory is Erin's story. Described as a vibrant and kind-hearted young woman, Erin's untimely passing served as a rallying call for her family and community. Her mother, Kelhi Giarruso, became a fierce advocate for change, urging lawmakers to act and prevent other families from experiencing similar heartache. At today's press conference, Kelhi Giarruso reflected on her daughter's legacy and the importance of this new law.

"This bill is not just policy, it is personal," said Assemblywoman Buttenschon. "In November of 2019, a vibrant young woman named Erin lost her life to an accidental fentanyl overdose. Her family, led by her mother Kelhi Giarruso, has fought tirelessly to ensure that others facing similar challenges have a chance at survival. Their courage and advocacy have made this moment possible. I am proud to stand with them today and proud that New York State is leading the way in providing life-saving resources in every public building."

Senator Joseph Griffo commented: "We continue to lose too many of our citizens to opioid addiction. This legislation will provide for better access to opioid antagonists like Narcan, will potentially save lives and build upon efforts to get this deadly crisis under control."

Cassandra Sheets, Center for Family Life and Recovery, Inc. CEO emphasized the importance of this legislation: "Today, we celebrate a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to combat the opioid crisis. With the Governor's signing of this piece of legislation, we are taking a bold step towards saving lives. This is not just about equipping spaces with life-saving tools; it is about creating an environment where public safety is a priority and where individuals struggling with addiction are met with compassion and support. We are thrilled to be a part of this movement, which we are hopeful will lead to a decline in overdose deaths and foster a culture of care across our communities. With the continued support of Erin's Law, we are breaking down the walls of stigma and challenging the misconceptions surrounding addiction. These efforts help us create public spaces where healing is possible and where individuals are empowered to begin their journey toward recovery. At CFLR, we believe that recovery is not just a destination, but a lifelong journey. No matter where you are on your path, we are here to walk with you -every step of the way."

Oneida County Sheriff Robert Maciol expressed his gratitude for this legislation, "Every time there is an overdose death, someone loses a child, a parent, or a sibling and we must continue to do everything we can to prevent these fatalities. Thank you to Assemblywoman Buttenschon and her colleagues in the Assembly & Senate, along with Governor Hochul for giving us another tool to help save lives"

The signing of A.1588-A is part of a broader effort led by Governor Hochul and the New York State Legislature to address the opioid epidemic head-on. Alongside Buttenschon's bill, the Governor also signed:

• S.4393/ A.5004 -Requiring the Department of Health to distribute fentanyl test strips with opioid antagonists and provide essential overdose response instructions.
• S.7833-A/A.8467-A- Expanding the availability and promotion of xylazine testing supplies to prevent overdoses linked to this dangerous drug adulterant.

Together, these measures represent one of the most comprehensive overdose prevention strategies in the nation, building on New York's ongoing efforts to distribute 11.6 million fentanyl test strips, nearly 700,000 naloxone kits, and expanded access to testing for emerging drug threats like xylazine.

The enactment of A.1588-A ensures that every public building in New York State, from libraries and government offices to community centers, will be equipped with the tools needed to save a life. This policy empowers public employees and everyday citizens to act swiftly in an emergency, bridging the gap between overdose and survival.

According to the New York State Department of Health, the window to reverse an opioid overdose is often mere minutes. Equipping public buildings with Naloxone increases the likelihood that help will be immediately available when it is needed most.

"Every moment matters in an overdose situation," said Assemblywoman Buttenschon. "By placing opioid antagonists in our public buildings, we are giving people the best chance at survival. We are giving families the chance to stay whole."

With the enactment of this groundbreaking legislation, Assemblywoman Buttenschon and her colleagues remain committed to reducing opioid-related fatalities and expanding public access to life-saving resources. Efforts to raise awareness about opioid addiction, increase the availability of testing and treatment, and reduce stigma continue to be essential components of New York's fight against the opioid crisis.

"Our work is not done," said Buttenschon. "But today, we celebrate progress. We honor Erin's legacy, we thank her family for their strength, and we recommit ourselves to a future where no life is lost to an overdose that could have been prevented."