South Queens, NY – New York State Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato was honored with the distinction of being named “Legislator of the Year” by the Police Benevolent Association of the New York State Troopers (NYSTPBA), the union that represents the men and women who serve in the State Police. The union unanimously voted to give the Assemblywoman the award and cited her as “a staunch advocate for New York State Troopers and all law enforcement.”

“It’s an honor to be recognized by the men and women who protect and serve our State each and every day. You are all heroes, and I thank you for your service,” said Assemblywoman Pheffer Amato. “It’s my privilege to make sure you and your families are supported, to ensure that you have the proper resources to keep our State safe, and to safeguard your pensions. I’m so proud to be your partner and look forward to continuing our work together,” the Assemblywoman said as the room of over 350 State Police Officers gave her a standing ovation.

“At the Thirteenth Annual New York State Trooper PBA Awards Dinner, we were proud to present the Assemblywoman with this award due to her courage, friendship, and dedication to our issues,” said NYSTPBA President Charles W. Murphy. “Assemblywoman Pheffer Amato has been a staunch advocate for the needs of the New York State law enforcement community and is truly unafraid to support the PBA at all times! She has made a difference and we applaud her dedication to public safety and bringing new resources to veterans and 9/11 first responders.”

During the ceremony, the union’s leadership stated how Pheffer Amato doesn’t give “lip service” like other elected officials, but actually passes laws that benefit law enforcement. The Assemblywoman was responsible for a 24% increase in funding for the NYS Police and codified the heart disease presumption benefit which guarantees permanent coverage for any heart-related illness for all uniformed officers in New York.