Assembly Republicans Urge Dems To Act On Heroin Epidemic [VIDEO]

With just nine days left in the state legislative session in Albany, a coalition of state legislators are urging their colleagues to pass legislation to curb the heroin epidemic facing the state.

Assemblyman Marc Butler says they're calling on Democrats in the Assembly to join the Senate in passing a series of bills to deal with the growing crisis.

“Assembly Democrats need to stop delaying passage of important legislation to address the heroin epidemic in our state,” said Butler. “This isn’t the time to dig in one’s heels. Cooperation is needed to combat this life- and community-threatening heroin epidemic before the end of session. I said it before and I will say it again, if they do nothing, Assembly Democrats will have to face the parents and loved ones of someone with a heroin addiction and explain why they did nothing when they had the opportunity. We already have the solutions; now is the time to act.”

“As we approach the end of session it is critical that we pass legislation strengthening our commitment to fighting the heroin epidemic facing New York State,” said Assemblywoman Claudia Tenney. “While the Assembly Majority believes we should provide drug dens to addicts, our conference has worked tirelessly to hold forums with victims and have drafted legislation the Democrats continue to ignore. Some of my Democratic colleagues believe we have done enough and that is where they are wrong. Millions have been affected by this drug with more facing addiction each day and we have a responsibility as legislators to do something about it and end this crisis.”

The lawmakers were joined in Albany today by parents, professionals and representatives from advocacy organizations.