Assemblyman Matt Slater (R,C-Yorktown) and members of the New York State Legislature claimed victory as their bipartisan effort to oppose Governor Kathy Hochul’s decision to cut addiction services in the Fiscal Year 2025 budget was successful.

“New York’s opioid crisis is an ongoing issue, and education and employment are critical pillars of successful recovery from substance use disorders. Eliminating these services risks worsening an already dire situation so I applaud my colleagues for working together to upkeep the progress we have made in supporting individuals on their path to recovery,” said Slater.

“I applaud Assemblyman Slater's strong support of funding for prevention, treatment and recovery services,” said Kristin McConnell, executive director at the Prevention Council of Putnam.

Earlier this year, Slater led a collaborative discussion with federal, county and local officials, county district attorneys, local law enforcement agencies, support groups and various organizations to develop a comprehensive framework focused on prevention, treatment, recovery and enforcement.

In 2022, New York witnessed approximately 6,670 overdose deaths, more than 10,000 emergency room visits due to overdoses and more than 70,000 admissions to substance-use disorder programs. Currently, 19 New Yorkers succumb to preventable opioid overdoses every day, underscoring the critical need for the state to continue to prioritize public health and take proactive measures to save lives.

*Click here to read the letter sent to Governor Hochul*