Assemblyman Ed Ra (R-Franklin Square) joined members of the Assembly Minority Conference to introduce a report outlining the steps necessary to combat the heroin epidemic in New York State.

With the help and input of the community, the final report highlighted the need to increase prevention and education, ensure proper detoxification, rehabilitation and recovery, and improve the relationships between the criminal justice system, law enforcement and health care providers to ensure the best possible care for those in need of help.

“The heroin epidemic that has plagued our neighborhoods and community is a very real problem, and we must do everything we can to prevent addiction and help those who have been affected,” said Ra. “Our solutions will help reduce the chance that our friends, neighbors or loved ones fall victim to addiction. We must continue to raise awareness of the dangers of abuse and provide more effective methods for treatment and recovery.”

The Assembly Minority Task Force on Heroin Addiction & Community Response held seven forums across the state to gather firsthand information from local officials, law enforcement, health care providers, recovering addicts and parents of addicted individuals to gain valuable insight into the problem and learn how to provide proper solutions. Ra participated in the first forum held on Long Island in the fall.