Suffolk Reporter

Assemblywoman Jodi Giglio (R,C-Riverhead) stood alongside fellow lawmakers and members of the law enforcement community at a press conference aimed at addressing drug abuse and the opioid epidemic in New York state.

The press conference outlined a series of proposals to combat drug abuse. One of the initiatives involves granting local justices the authority to set bail for defendants selling dangerous synthetic opioids like fentanyl. Another proposal, known as the 'Death by Dealer' statute, aims to hold accountable those who sell controlled substances that lead to fatal overdoses.

Furthermore, a measure was discussed to criminalize the street drug xylazine, which is often mixed with other substances and has severe consequences, including death and skin loss. Additionally, there was a proposal to amend the executive law to provide financial compensation to family members of fatal overdose victims for expenses such as funeral bills and grief counseling.

Assemblywoman Giglio emphasized the importance of prioritizing support for victims and holding accountable those who profit from drug abuse. She highlighted the increasing number of opioid-related deaths in New York and the nation, urging the government to take action.

In her closing remarks, Giglio reiterated her commitment to advocating for effective measures in Albany and ensuring that the voices of those impacted by the opioid crisis are heard.

The assemblywoman stated, "The new year is a chance to re-focus the conversation of drug abuse back to where it should be: support of victims and punishment of those who profit off them." She concluded by saying, “We owe it to our state to fight for our people in the midst of an opioid crisis. I am just as committed as ever to taking that fight to Albany and making sure your voices are heard.”